Home Remedy For Bad Breath

Home remedies that really work

2010-02-17T01:11:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the best solution really is the simplest.

If you’re grappling with minor ailments – bug bites, tension headaches, seasonal allergies – relief might be found in your own kitchen cupboard or medicine cabinet.

The following tips for treating everyday complaints are from Prevention magazine and Jen DeMaio and Steve Spader, licensed acupuncturists who run Two Turtles Wellness Center in Moorhead.

“A lot of symptomatic things do respond well to natural remedies,” Spader says. “Most things should shift within a couple of days.”

If symptoms actually persist or worsen, Spader recommends seeing your primary health care provider.

Another important thing to remember: Herbs can sometimes interfere with other drugs or cause problems during pregnancy, so talk to your doctor before taking them.

* Minor burns – such as sunburns or first-degree burns – can be soothed with tea. Simply soak a washcloth in a cool solution of green or black tea. The tea’s phytonutrients will help to reduce inflamed blood vessels.

* For stubborn acne, scrub the face with coarse salt (which has antiseptic qualities) and a few drops of antifungal neem oil (found at health-food stores). Rinse, then apply a mask of plain yogurt for 15 to 30 minutes. The yogurt’s lactic acid is a natural exfoliant that clears blemishes, fades discoloration and makes skin glow.

* To soothe itchy skin, spritz yourself with European mineral water, such as the San Pellegrino brand. Studies show that the spring water’s trace minerals will act like an anti-inflammatory, relieving pain and redness from minor burns and rashes. Spader and DeMaio also say itchy skin, minor burns and abrasions respond well to calendula oil, derived from the petals of the marigold and available in health-food stores. Calendula has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial benefits.

* To minimize scarring as a wound heals, keep the skin soft. Regardless of what some people say, scab formation is not ideal. Instead, keep the area moist with petroleum jelly and a bandage for three to five days. Overnight, put cellophane tape over the jelly, which will trap in the water, fostering healthy collagen growth.

* Mosquito bites, insect stings, pimples and ingrown hair can be treated with aspirin paste. Crush a low-dose aspirin, add about an ounce of water to dissolve it, and then apply to the bite. The aspirin is anti-inflammatory and contains salicylic acid, the active ingredient in many acne medications.

* For sore, scratchy throats, gargle with warm salt water, says Dr. Grace Keenan, medical director of Nova Medical Group, Sterling, Va. The warm water is soothing; the salt can kill bacteria in the throat and help increase blood flow to carry infection-fighting cells to the afflicted area. A good ratio is one teaspoon of salt per pint of water, used once a day or as needed.

* Feeling nauseated? Don’t bother with over-the-counter nausea remedies; most are mainly sugar. It’s cheaper to use the fruit syrup from a can of peaches instead. This syrup, or some flat soda, can also effectively treat motion sickness, morning sickness or stomach bugs. Fresh ginger – grated and steeped in hot water – can also curb nausea, DeMaio says.

* Tea made from pomegranate skin can help alleviate diarrhea. Set aside the leftovers from your next purchase; you can store the dried fruit skin for up to six months. Then steep a tablespoon’s worth in a cup of boiling water for three to four minutes. Oak bark (available at health-food stores) also works. Boil for 3 minutes, let sit for 30 minutes, then strain. Drink two tablespoons, four to six times a day. Both recipes are rich in tannins, which help the body produce mucus to line the stomach and lessen irritation.

* Tension headaches can be treated with a footbath made of hot water and a few teaspoons of mustard powder. The footbath not only relaxes you, the hot water encourages your body to redistribute blood from your throbbing head to your feet. At the same time, mustard powder’s essential oils stimulate the skin, serving as a distraction from the pain.

An acupressure foot rub can also help to relieve head pain. Acupressurists treat points all over the body to ease a throbbing head, but the best results may come from massaging a third of the way down the sole of the foot, where the toes begin. Also effective for muscle tension in the head and neck: Lie down with an ice pack or bag of frozen peas, rolled in a towel, under your neck for 15 minutes.

* If life gives you motion sickness, make lemonade. Motion sickness can cause you to produce excess saliva, which triggers nausea. Tannins in olives dry out the mouth and can help ease queasiness. Sucking on a lemon – if you can stand it – can also do the trick.

* A spoonful of sugar helps the hiccups go down. The sugar is believed to modify the nerve muscles that would otherwise tell the diaphragm’s muscles to contract spasmodically and contribute to hiccups.

* Bad-breath bacteria can be suppressed by the live bacteria found in yogurt. The dairy product’s “good” bugs can crowd out the “bad,” odor-causing bugs or create an unhealthy environment for them to grow.

* Listerine can help blisters heal. Moisten a cotton ball with the mouthwash and dab it on the blister three times a day until the area dries out and no longer hurts.

* To ease symptoms from the early stages of cold or flu, place a whole, unpeeled grapefruit, sectioned into four pieces, in a pot and cover with water. Heat to just about boiling. Stir and add a tablespoon of honey, and drink the whole mixture like tea. The simmering will release the citrus fruit’s immunity boosters, like vitamin C and flavonoids, which are hidden between the rind and the fruit. The warmth also eases a sore throat. To strengthen your body’s healing response, try liquid olive leaf extract, available at health-food stores. Studies suggest its antiviral qualities can help treat cold and flu bugs.

* Suffering from congestion and bronchitis? Dr. Woodson Merrell, an assistant clinical professor of medicine at Columbia University, says relief can be found in humble medicated vapor rub. Merrell told Prevention magazine that when family members are congested, he boils a pot of water, allows it to cool for 1 minute, then mixes in one teaspoon of vapor rub. Next, he has the patient lean over the mixture so the head is about a foot from the steam, using a towel over the head to make a tent. He advises doing this for five minutes.

* Minor ear infections can be treated with garlic oil, available at health-food stores, Spader says. Look for varieties that contain willow bark, a precursor to aspirin. The willow bark helps to reduce pain; the garlic oil has anti-bacterial properties, Spader says.

* Seasonal allergies making you miserable? Relieve itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing with the herbal supplement butter-bur. Swiss researchers found that one tablet of butter-bur three times a day worked just as well as antihistamines without causing drowsiness.

* Jack Dillenberg, dean of the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health, recommends eugenol, or clove extract, as a quick, old-fashioned remedy for toothache. Soak a cotton ball in the extract, available at pharmacies, and place it directly on the tooth for several minutes. It will reduce the pain until you can get to a dentist.

* If stress is triggering insomnia, try valerian root tincture, a natural sedative available at health food stores. (Though study results on valerian are mixed, some trials suggest it improves shut-eye for troubled sleepers.) Add 25 to 30 drops to 1½ ounces of warm water, 30 minutes before bed, and drink. To curb the strong taste, stir in some honey and follow the valerian drink with a glass of water. You can also find valerian in commercial teas, such as Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime Extra Wellness blend.

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8 Home Remedies for Bad Breath

2010-01-22T18:46:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it, bad breath is embarrassing. The good news is that for the most part—with proper dental care—bad breath, also called halitosis, can be avoided. Maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath, as bacteria that builds up on the back of your tongue or in between your teeth is the main culprit. Bad breath can be caused by foods, smoking, dry mouth, medical conditions, gum disease and sinus conditions. No wonder dental hygiene is such big business.
If your halitosis hangs on for more than 24 hours without an obvious cause, call your dentist or doctor, says Roger P. Levin, D.D.S. It can be a sign of gum disease, gastrointestinal problems, sinus infection, bronchitis, or even more serious diseases, such as diabetes, liver or kidney failure, and cancer. Bad breath can also be a sign of dehydration or zinc deficiency.

The truth behind 13 other embarrassing body quirks

Spice things up
Other herbs and spices in your kitchen are natural breath enhancers. Carry a tiny plastic bag of cloves, fennel, or anise seeds to chew after odoriferous meals.

Brush your tongue
"Most people overlook their tongue," says Dr. Eric Shapira, D.D.S. "Your tongue is covered with little hair-like projections, which under a microscope look like a forest of mushrooms. Under the caps of the 'mushrooms,' there's room to harbor plaque and some of the things we eat. That causes bad breath."
His advice? While brushing, gently sweep the top of your tongue, too, so that you don't leave food and bacteria behind to breed bad breath.

Follow these tips for a healthy smile

Ban certain beverages
Coffee, beer, wine and whiskey are at the top of the list of liquid offenders. Each leaves a residue that can attach to the plaque in your mouth and infiltrate your digestive system. Each breath you take spews traces back into the air.

Carry a toothbrush
Some odors can be eliminated—permanently or temporarily—if you brush immediately after a meal. The main culprit in bad breath is a soft, sticky film of living and dead bacteria that clings to your teeth and gums, says Dr. Shapira. That film is called plaque. At any time, there are 50 trillion of these microscopic organisms loitering in your mouth. They sit in every dark corner, eating each morsel of food that passes your lips, collecting little smells, and producing little odors of their own. As you exhale, the bacteria exhale. So brush away the plaque after each meal and get rid of some of the breath problem.

How much do you know about caring for your pearly whites?

Create your own gargle
Mix extracts of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum (all available at health food stores) in equal proportions and gargle with the mixture four times a day. Keep the mouthwash in a tightly sealed jar at room temperature.
Even when you can't brush, you can rinse. Take a sip of water after meals, swish it around, and wash the smell of food from your mouth, says Jerry F. Taintor, D.D.S.

Eat your parsley
Parsley adds more than green to your lunch plate; it's also a breath-saver, because it contains chlorophyll, a known breath deodorizer. So pick up that sprig garnishing your plate and chew it thoroughly. Or toss a few handfuls (even add some watercress to the mix) in a juicer. Sip the juice anytime you need to refresh your breath.

Eat these foods for overall better health

Chew a mint or some gum
Like mouthwash, a breath mint or minty gum is just a cover-up, good for a short interview, a short ride in a compact car or a very short date.

Don’t floss as often as you should? Other habits you should break today!

Ease up on cheese
Camembert, Roquefort, and blue cheese are called strong for good reason—they get a hold on your breath and don't let go. Other dairy products may have the same effect.

Slide show content includes excerpts from The Doctors Book of Home Remedies (Rodale, 2003).

Panel of Advisors
Roger P. Levin, D.D.S., is the chief executive officer of the Levin Group, a dental practice in Baltimore and Phoenix.

Eric Shapira, D.D.S., M.A., M.H.A., is a dental consultant, clinical gerontologist, and educator based in Montara, Calif. He is the founder of Aging Mentor Services, which provides counseling and care management to older adults and family in transition.

Jerry F. Taintor, D.D.S., M.S., is an endodontist in private practice in Memphis, Tenn. He is the author of The Complete Guide to Better Dental Care.

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Banish bad breath

2009-12-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

Proper brushing and flossing, accompanied by the use of anti-bacterial mouthwash to prevent the formation of plaque and tartar, can prevent halitosis, says Dr Ashok Dhoble

Maintenance of good oral hygiene is the key to the prevention of dental disease. Oral care is not complete only by brushing your teeth twice a day. In addition to being careful about your toothpaste and toothbrush, you should take special care to ensure that you also use a good mouthwash.

Brushing efficiency is generally lower at the gum line between the teeth, under the braces, crowns and prostheses. If germs are left there, brushing efficiency drops. However, the liquid active components of mouthwash reach such difficult spots, getting rid of food particles and germs thereby helping to prevent plaque and tooth decay. The active components of mouthwash reduce plaque in hard-to-reach places and prevent germs from spreading.

Mouthwash is of greater benefit to people who do not floss their teeth, since the mouthwash (especially if it contains antibacterial agents) goes between the teeth and prevents the formation of plaque (bacterial colonies), which are the principal cause of tooth decay and gum disease.

A mouthwash also gets rid of germs which reside on the tongue and other inaccessible areas where the toothbrush does not reach, thereby freshening the breath.

A complete oral care routine of ‘toothbrush-toothpaste-mouthwash’ helps prevent dental disease.

Benefits of mouthwash
Mouthwash generally contains a liquid vehicle to deliver active ingredients. It is more effective than toothpaste since it can reach the hard-to-reach places in the mouth and effectively fight the bacteria that cause plaque. Mouthwash is a simple delivery system and compromises the active ingredients less, thereby enabling control over the delivery of a higher dose of active ingredients.

It cleanses the mouth effectively and treats diseased states of the oral mucosa, thereby providing therapeutic and cosmetic benefits.

Mouthwashes are sold in a variety of flavours and colours, among which blue or green mint varieties are very common. The protection period offered by mouthwashes is an important criterion to consider while choosing the mouthwash that complements your oral care routine. The best option would be to brush twice a day and choose a mouthwash that offers you a 12-hour protection period, so that you are protected from germs for the period in between brushing.

There are two main benefits offered by mouthwash:
It fights and kills bacteria in hard-to-reach places in the mouth, thereby reducing the incidence of plaque and tooth decay.

It also fights bad breath. Mouthwashes are designed to eliminate bad breath in two ways. They relieve it by killing the bacteria responsible for producing the foul odour. They can prevent bad breath for as long as eight hours. They help reduce bad breath by masking the odour.

Preventing halitosis
Halitosis could be a sign of serious systemic disorder. However in 90 per cent of the cases, halitosis is due to dental and gum conditions.

Gum disease (Periodontitis) causes destruction of bone and soft tissue and formation of pus. The release of sulphur compounds by micro-organisms gives rise to a bad smell, which is characteristic of halitosis. Halitosis is an embarrassing condition for people who suffer from it.

Therefore, it is very important to practice correct method of oral hygiene like brushing and flossing, accompanied by the use of anti-bacterial mouthwash to prevent the formation of plaque and tartar, which is the main cause of gum disease.
Plaque — colonies of bacteria — also form on the tongue. The use of a good toothbrush, anti-bacterial toothpaste and tongue scraper are strongly recommended to prevent halitosis.

However, if gum disease has already been established one must visit a dentist who will treat gum disease and will also teach the correct method of oral hygiene.
In a few cases, halitosis could be due to upper respiratory tract infection like infected tonsils. In some others, it may also be due to gastrointestinal problems.

How to use mouthwash
Mouthwash is generally to be used in an undiluted form, before or after brushing. The quantity of mouthwash to use would be 20ml or as specified on the bottle. Take the specified quantity of mouthwash, rinse mouth thoroughly for 1 minute or as specified on the bottle, gargle and then expel the mouthwash.

Tips
For normal use, a mouthwash can be bought over the counter. However, if a mouthwash needs to be used for special problems like sensitivity it should be after proper professional supervision. Mouthwash used in proper quantity is not harmful. Dentists advise parental supervision for patients under the age of 8-10 years.

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6 Natural Remedies You Probably Already Have

2009-11-12T01:15:00.000-08:00

Natural spices in the kitchen cabinet have been ingredients of home remedies for several generations, and in this post, I want to share some of these spices that I have grown to love and respect.

I am not a doctor and do not claim any of these can cure you of sicknesses. I have however, grown up using these spices as a part of home remedies for years. They work wonderfully to prevent several ailments and to perk up my spirits.

All of these spices are strong and potent. NEVER use more than a pinch or a few drops of any of them at a time.

1. Ginger

Ginger (or ginger root) is one of my most favorite spices. It has been used in Asian cooking for years, and has a wonderfully distinct taste and smell — it’s been used over the years to disguise the taste and smell of medicines.

How I use it:

I often use fresh ginger in my cooking. Just a little ginger in tea (boil for few minutes) is extremely effective in reducing congestion.

Three to four drops of freshly-squeezed ginger mixed with a teaspoon of honey does wonders for an irritated throat.

I also regularly ate ginger candy to reduce nausea during both my pregnancies.

2. Garlic

Garlic belongs to the onion family and is another root I use quite a bit in cooking. It has a strong taste when raw, but it gets mild and sweet on cooking. Garlic is known for its antibiotic properties, and is also a powerful antioxidant. Garlic helps control cholesterol, too.

How I use it:

Due to the strong flavor of garlic, I tend to not use it directly. I do, however, cook with it regularly. Just a couple of cloves, chopped and gently fried in a little butter contains wonderful flavor and goodness.

3. Honey

The benefits of honey are known worldwide. It has been known to energize the body, boost immunity, help with cuts and bruises, and works wonderfully on coughs and colds.

How I use it:

I mostly use honey as a sweetener, replacing corn sugar with it whenever possible. I also use honey as the base for a number of cough and cold remedies. The kids love a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of ginger juice when they have a cough. Ground pepper mixed with honey also works well for my husband and me.

For years, I have had a tall glass of warm water with a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of lemon juice every morning. It is a great way to improve metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric is a key ingredient for many Indian, Thai and Malay dishes. It is known to be a really effective antibiotic, due to its antiseptic properties.

How I use it:

I also regularly cook with turmeric, especially since all curries contain turmeric. A pinch of turmeric can be added to lentils while they boil in the pot. I also use a mixture of olive oil and a pinch of turmeric for face and body massages.

5. Pepper

Pepper is a widely available spice, and it is known to stimulate taste buds and improve digestion. As with garlic, it is hard to use pepper directly, so it is best to incorporate pepper into cooking.

How I use it:

I drink a few tablespoons of warm milk with a pinch of pepper and powdered turmeric when I have a cold and cough. It helps settle the irritation in the throat. Vocal artists and singers in India are known to do this every night to maintain oral health in general.

6. Cloves

Cloves are known for their antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, and even aphrodisiac properties. Traditionally, cloves were used to reduce bad breath.

How I use it:

In our home, cloves are the first remedy for a toothache — chewing a clove can be very effective. My mom carries a tiny box of cloves to use after strong lunches and dinners outside the home.

As with everything, spices should be used in moderation and with caution.

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Quirky Home Remedies That Really Work!

2009-11-11T01:13:00.000-08:00

Expert from Prevention Magazine Points to Crazy Old Wives' Tale Solutions That Are Actually Effective

(CBS) Pencils for headaches? Mouthwash for blisters? Don't knock them until you've tried them!

On "The Early Show Saturday Edition," Prevention magazine editor Rebekah George spotlighted some unusual, surprisingly effective treatments for minor conditions, and you probably already have the items in your house.

She explains that home remedies grew from necessity, when formal medical care either didn't exist or wasn't widely available to everyone. Our ancestors made do by using whatever they had on-hand to treat their various ailments, and then sharing what worked for them with their friends and neighbors.

The amazing thing about home remedies is that they've survived through the evolution of modern medicine. Despite all the great advances that have transformed how we treat illness or injury, home remedies are often still the go-to choice for many people for many conditions.

Why? They're inexpensive, convenient, and they work!

All of these can be found in one of Prevention's most popular books, "The Big Doctors Book of Home Remedies." Prevention interviewed doctors, health professionals, and experts across a number of fields, asking them what remedies they've found to be the most successful, and what they themselves recommend.

According to George, certain remedies have been validated by clinical research, but for many others, the proof comes from the laboratory of real life. We don't always know WHY they're effective, they just are. Some of them have even found their way into our doctors' offices!

George stresses that these aren't substitutes for serious medical treatment. Never stop taking a medication or otherwise change your treatment plan without consulting your doctor first.

Home cure: Headaches: Use A Pencil

Almost all of us have experiences headaches, but you may not know that 90 percent of all headaches are classified as tension headaches, according to the National Headache Foundation.

When you're stressed or anxious, you subconsciously clench your jaw and teeth; this strains the muscle that connects your jaw to your temples and can trigger a tension headache.

A solution: Put a pencil between your teeth but don't bite. You automatically relax your jaw muscle to do this, which can help ease the pain.

Home cure: Blisters: Use Mouthwash

Blisters are caused by friction that ruptures cell tissue and releases plasma (that's what the fluid in the blister is!). The outside skin is your body's natural way of preventing infection.

In addition to fresher breath, mouthwash can also help treat blisters!

Moisten a cotton ball with Listerine and dab it on your blister 3 times a day until the area dries out and no longer hurts.

Home cure: Hiccups: Use a Teaspoon of Sugar

No one is sure what triggers the hiccup reflex. A common explanation is that it's caused by irritation or stimulation of the nerve that connects the brain and the diaphragm.

Although they're harmless, they can be annoying. There are hundreds of home remedies out there, and everyone has a favorite. But before you try scaring them out of someone, tell them to try one of our favorites: Swallowing a spoonful of dry sugar can stop hiccups in minutes.

The sugar is believed to modify the nerve muscles that are telling the muscles in the diaphragm to contract irregularly.

Home cure: Motion Sickness: Suck on a Lemon

The queasy, uneasy feeling of motion sickness occurs when there is a mismatch between any of the systems that help keep you operating properly when you're in motion. These include structures in your inner ears, your eyes, and the internal mental sense of motion, in which your mind anticipates upcoming movement.

Reading while in the car is a common cause - your eyes are focused on the book in front of you, while your inner ear is telling you that you're bouncing all around on a bumpy road.

Once you feel the symptoms coming on, motion sickness can be very difficult to stop. Luckily, olives or lemons can help nurse the symptoms.

Motion sickness causes you to produce excess saliva, which can make you nauseated.

Compounds in olives dry out your mouth and can help soothe queasiness. Try eating a few olives at the first hint of nausea. Sucking on a lemon can also do the trick.

Home cure: Smoother Skin: Use Papaya and Dry Oatmeal

This tropical fruit contains papain, a protein-eating enzyme that dissolves the dead cells on your skin's surface that can make it look dull and rough and leave it prone to breakouts. When used twice a month, this peel leaves skin softer, smoother, and more radiant:

Grind two tablespoons of washed and peeled papaya in a food processor and add one tablespoon of dry oatmeal. Pat this mixture onto clean skin and let it set for 10 minutes before wiping off with a wet washcloth. The enzymes in papaya are gentle, which is why this is an ideal treatment for those with sensitive skin. However, to be safe, do a test spot behind your ear the first time you try it.

Home cure: Yogurt: Use it for: Bad breath

Many of us worry about bad breath, but preventing it can be as easy as opening your refrigerator! Research shows that the live bacteria in yogurt can suppress levels of bad breath-causing bacteria coating the tongue.

"Good" bugs in yogurt may create an unhealthy environment for the stink-causing bacteria.

Home cure: Peppermint or cinnamon gum: Use for: The stress of a traffic-packed commute

Driving can be an extremely stressful experience, and many of us feel anger or anxiety during our daily commute. To make the experience a little more pleasant, you may want to trade in your pine-scented air freshener for a peppermint candy or a piece of cinnamon gum.

In a NASA-funded study, scientists from Wheeling Jesuit University monitored the responses of 25 college students during simulated driving scenarios.

The volunteers reported that peppermint lowered their feelings of fatigue or anxiety by 20 percent. Peppermint and cinnamon each decreased frustration by 25 percent, increased alertness by 30 percent, and made the ride seem 30 percent shorter.

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Reverse Halitosis: Natural Remedies for Bad Breath

2009-09-08T01:09:00.000-07:00

(NaturalNews) Everyone at some point in their lives has suffered from a horrendous case of morning breath - the type that makes your partner's eyes water or that the kids cower away from. For most of us the cure is simple, a quick brush followed by a gargle of mouth wash and you are set for the day. But for some this simply isn`t enough and the problem of halitosis or bad breath simply will not go away.

There are a number of different things that can cause halitosis, but having a dry mouth is one of the main culprits. Saliva is the mouth's natural defense against bacteria. So when your mouth is dry there is no defense against the odor causing molecules that can cause halitosis. Having an excessively dry mouth can be caused by alcohol, certain medicines, stress and some medical conditions. Other causes of halitosis are dental hygiene or lack of it, nasal infections, foods that are high in protein and smoking, which starves the mouth of oxygen.

It can be a very embarrassing problem that has been known to lead to many social and mental problems. Many people who suffer from halitosis simply won`t talk in group situations and refuse to go out as they are afraid that people will be put off by the smell. This type of self seclusion can cause severe depression and has even been known to lead to weight gain as sufferers take up comfort eating to fill the deep void that has taken over their lives.

Cures For Halitosis

As with most ailments there are literally hundreds of old wives' tales floating around that are said to cure halitosis, but which of them actually work?

Baking soda is involved in a lot of home remedy theories, most of them being completely false. But when it comes to helping cure halitosis there might be something in the baking soda story. Brushing your teeth and tongue with just a little baking soda is thought to make the mouth a little less hospitable and to stop bacteria from growing. You can even buy tooth paste that contains small amounts of baking soda so that there is no need to brush your teeth twice.

Homemade tea tree mouthwashes have become a very popular way of combating halitosis. This is because tea tree is known to be a powerful disinfectant that helps kill bacteria. There are many different ingredients you can add to this such as peppermint to make your breath extra fresh, but the basics are a cup of warm water and a few drops of tea tree oil. Use this to rinse you mouth out at least twice a day and you should notice a massive difference.

http://www.home-remedies-for-you.co...

http://ezinearticles.com/?Natural-C...

http://www.badbreathremedyguide.com/

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Ancient traditional remedies

2009-05-29T00:48:00.000-07:00

According to traditional Ayurvedic medicine, chewing areca nut and betel leaf is an excellent remedy against bad breath (halitosis). In South Asia it was a custom to chew Areca or betel nut and betel leaf among lovers because of the breath-freshening and stimulant drug properties of the mixture. Both the nut and the leaf are mild stimulants and can be addictive with repeated use. The betel nut will also cause tooth decay and dye ones teeth bright red when chewed

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Mouthwashes

2009-05-28T00:47:00.000-07:00

Mouthwashes often contain antibacterial agents including cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, zinc gluconate, essential oils, and chlorine dioxide. Zinc and chlorhexidine provide strong synergistic effect.[26][27] sugar also helps prevent bad breath. They may also contain alcohol, which is a drying agent. Rinses in this category include Scope and Listerine.

Other solutions rely on odor eliminators like oxidizers to eliminate existing bad breath on a short-term basis. Rinses in this category include SmartMouth, Therabreath, Closys and others.

A relatively new approach for home-care of bad breath is by oil-containing mouthwashes. The use of essential oils has been studied,[28] was found effective and is being used in several commercial mouthwashes, as well as the use of two-phase (oil:water) mouthwashes, which have been found to be effective in reducing oral malodor.

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Maintain water levels

2009-05-27T00:46:00.000-07:00

Maintain water levels in the body by drinking several glasses of water a day.

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Maintaining proper oral hygiene

2009-05-26T00:44:00.000-07:00

Maintaining proper oral hygiene, including daily tongue cleaning, brushing, flossing, and periodic visits to dentists and hygienists. Flossing is particularly important in removing rotting food debris and bacterial plaque from between the teeth, especially at the gumline. Dentures should be properly cleaned and soaked overnight in antibacterial solution (unless otherwise advised by your dentist).

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Gargling

2009-05-25T00:43:00.000-07:00

Gargling right before bedtime with an effective mouthwash (see below). Several types of commercial mouthwashes have been shown to reduce malodor for hours in peer-reviewed scientific studies. Mouthwashes may contain active ingredients which are inactivated by the soap present in most toothpastes. Thus it is recommended to refrain from using mouthwash directly after toothbrushing with paste (also see mouthwashes, below).[25]

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Chewing gum

2009-05-24T00:42:00.000-07:00

Chewing gum: Since dry mouth can increase bacterial buildup and cause or worsen bad breath, chewing sugarless gum can help with the production of saliva, and thereby help to reduce bad breath. Chewing may help particularly when the mouth is dry, or when one cannot perform oral hygiene procedures after meals (especially those meals rich in protein). This aids in provision of saliva, which washes away oral bacteria, has antibacterial properties and promotes mechanical activity which helps cleanse the mouth. Some chewing gums contain special anti-odor ingredients. Chewing on fennel seeds, cinnamon sticks, mastic gum or fresh parsley are common folk remedies.

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Eating a healthy breakfast

2009-05-23T00:40:00.000-07:00

Eating a healthy breakfast with rough foods helps clean the very back of the tongue.

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Gently cleaning the tongue surface

2009-05-22T00:24:00.000-07:00

Gently cleaning the tongue surface twice daily is the most effective way to keep bad breath in control; that can be achieved using a tongue cleaner or tongue brush/scraper to wipe off the bacterial biofilm, debris and mucus. An inverted teaspoon may also do the job; a toothbrush should be avoided, as the bristles only spread the bacteria in the mouth, and grip the tongue, causing a gagging reflex. Scraping or otherwise damaging the tongue should be avoided, and scraping of the V-shaped row of taste buds found at the extreme back of the tongue should also be avoided. Brushing a small amount of antibacterial mouth rinse or tongue gel onto the tongue surface will further inhibit bacterial action.

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Take your breath away ... far away

2009-05-08T23:13:00.000-07:00

In the hierarchy of social stigmas, bad breath ranks right up there with body odor and indiscreet flatulence. It's a deal breaker, romance killer and a sure way to keep people at arm's length.

Most of us have it at least once a day, particularly when we first wake up. But for about a quarter of the population, halitosis is a chronic problem.

No wonder Americans spend nearly $4 billion a year on mints, mouthwashes, gums and mouth sprays to combat the embarrassing odor. However, according to dental experts, these are all just temporary fixes for a bigger problem.

“Bad breath can be caused by lots of different things – infection, sinus problems, dry mouth. Unless you get to the cause of the problem, it doesn't matter how much gum you chew or mouthwash you use,” says Dr. Douglas Cassat, a Tierrasanta dentist.

San Diego dentists list some causes for halitosis and what you can do to remedy each.

ORAL HYGIENE. Ineffective daily brushing and flossing leaves behind particles of food in the mouth which collect bacteria and can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, under bridges and on the tongue and around the gums can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor.

Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove the plaque and bacteria that cause halitosis.

It's also a good idea to gently brush the back of the tongue with your toothbrush or tongue scraper.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE. Gum disease can cause persistent bad breath as well as a bad taste in your mouth. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on and around the teeth and gums.

In addition to flossing at least once a day, it's important to have your teeth professionally checked and cleaned at least every six months. If you have signs of gum disease, be vigilant about your home oral care.

“You can have just one small area or pocket of infection in the mouth and it will cause bad breath,” says Dr. Carol Summerhays, a Sorrento Valley dentist. “It usually requires a hygienist or dentist to get in there and irrigate and clean it and kill the bacteria before the odor goes away.”

DENTURES. Food and bacteria can get trapped in dentures producing odor. If you wear a bridge or a partial or complete denture, clean it thoroughly at least once a day or as directed by your dentist.

DRY MOUTH. To properly cleanse the mouth and remove food particles that may cause odor, you need adequate saliva. A smelly dry mouth may be caused by various medications (antihistamines, heart and blood-pressure medicine and antidepressants), salivary gland problems (often seen in the elderly) or continuously breathing through the mouth.

Drink plenty of water and chew sugarless gum to increase saliva flow. There are also some products on the market, including mouth sprays and washes, made especially for people with dry mouth problems.

ALCOHOL. No matter if it's in a cocktail or a mouthwash, alcohol creates a dry environment in the mouth that bacteria love. Drink plenty of water.

“Alcohol pulls all the moisture out of the cells in the mouth. I always recommend alcohol-free mouthwashes. A peroxide-type of mouthwash is much better than one with alcohol,” Cassat says.

FOOD SUCH AS GARLIC OR ONIONS. When foods are digested, their molecules are absorbed by our bodies and carried off in the bloodstream. Some of these molecules are released into the lungs as blood flows through them. As we exhale, our breath carries these offending molecules out of our bodies and often into the faces of others.

This kind of bad breath will resolve itself on its own in a day or so as the body completes the metabolization process. The only way to control garlic or onion breath is to minimize consumption of it.

“It'll help to brush your teeth and scrap your tongue. You can also try chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol, which will help fight decay and help increase saliva,” Summerhays says.

SMOKING. Much of what makes a smoker's breath smell is the tobacco smoke. It contains tar, nicotine and other foul-smelling substances that accumulate on teeth and soft tissues of the mouth. Smoking also makes the mouth dry out more quickly.

Although diligent oral hygiene and tongue scraping can help reduce smoker's breath, the only way to completely eliminate it is to quit smoking.

SINUS PROBLEMS. Colds, respiratory infections and allergies can promote the flow of postnasal drip onto the back of the tongue. This discharge has a nasty taste and smell. To make matters worse, bacteria feed on the discharge and create their own foul-smelling waste products.

To help clear this drip, try taking an antihistamine, although the medication will dry out the mouth. Drink lots of fluids and try scraping your tongue.

“If sinus problems are the cause of bad breath, concentrate on treating the sinuses, not the odor,” Cassat says.

Source

What can I do to prevent bad breath?

2008-09-15T07:31:00.001-07:00

Bad breath can be reduced or prevented if you:

1. Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your teeth after you eat (keep a

toothbrush at work or school to brush after lunch). Don't forget to brush

your tongue, too. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. Use floss or

an interdental cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth

once a day. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before

being placed in your mouth the next morning.
2. See your dentist regularly -- at least twice a year. He or she will

conduct an oral examination and professional teeth cleaning and will be able

detect and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth, or other problems that may

be the cause of bad mouth odor.
3. Stop smoking and chewing tobacco-based products. Ask your dentist for

tips on kicking the habit.
4. Drink lots of water. This will keep your mouth moist. Chewing gum

(preferably sugarless) or sucking on candy (preferably sugarless) also

stimulates the production of saliva, which helps wash away food particles and

bacteria.
5. Keep a log of the foods you eat. If you think the foods that you eat

may be causing your bad breath, record what you eat so that you can determine

which foods may be contributing to the problem. Bring the log to your dentist

to review. Also make a list of the medications you take. Some medications may

play a role in creating mouth odors.

What health problems are associated with bad breath?

2008-09-15T07:29:00.001-07:00

Persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth may be warning signs of

periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by the buildup of plaque

on teeth. The bacteria cause toxins or poisons to form in the mouth, which

irritate the gums. Damage can occur to the gum and jawbone as periodontal

disease progresses.

The medical condition dry mouth can also cause bad breath. Saliva is

necessary to moisten and cleanse the mouth by neutralizing acids produced by

plaque and washing away dead cells that accumulate on the tongue, gums, and

cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry

mouth may be caused by the side effects of various medications, salivary

gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth.

Other diseases and illnesses can also cause bad breath. Some of these medical

problems include: respiratory tract infections (for example, infections

involving the nose, throat, windpipe, lungs); chronic sinusitis; postnasal

drip; chronic bronchitis; diabetes; gastrointestinal disturbances; or liver

or kidney problems

What causes halitosis or bad breath?

2008-09-08T07:26:00.001-07:00

While bad breath or halitosis may sometimes be caused by poor oral hygiene,

there may also be other underlying causes which contribute to bad breath and

are often difficult to treat, despite all efforts to follow a healthy mouth

and teeth cleaning routine.

This can cause great distress and even result in problems with relationships

and difficulties in the workplace.

There are a number of causes of bad breath, including:

*

Poor oral hygiene
*

Gum disease (e.g. gum boils, abscesses, spongy gums, gingivitis)
*

Multiplication of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth and digestive

tract
*

Candidiasis
*

Chronic sinus infection
*

Certain medications (especially those that cause dry mouth as a side

effect)
*

Smoking
*

Some foods can cause bad breath (garlic, onions, anchovies, high

protein diet)
*

Poor digestion and sluggish liver
*

Constipation

How do I know if I have bad breath?

Sometimes bad breath is noticed by an unpleasant or bitter taste in your

mouth.

You can also check the smell of your saliva by licking the skin on your inner

wrist and then smelling it. If it has an offensive odor, then the chances are

that your breath is not as sweet as you would like it to be!

However, it is also possible to suffer from bad breath without being aware of

it. If you notice that people tend to step away from you when you speak, turn

their heads or cover their mouths, then bad breath may be a problem.

The best way to find out is to ask someone who you can trust to tell you the

truth.

Routine oral hygiene - a cure for most cases of bad breath

2008-09-08T07:22:00.001-07:00

It is important to get into a regular habit of good oral hygiene - in

particular teeth brushing and flossing.

Teeth brushing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-tufted brush. The head of

the brush should be small enough to get into all the areas of the mouth.

Spend at least two minutes brushing, covering all areas (the inside, outside,

and biting areas of each tooth). Pay particular attention to where the teeth

meet the gum. Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months. Many people find that an

electric toothbrush does a better job than the traditional toothbrush, and so

they have become popular.
It is usually advised that you use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. (The

fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay.)

Flossing
Floss your teeth at least once a day after brushing, and preferably twice a

day. (Some people who have not flossed before are surprised as to how much

extra debris and food particles can be removed by flossing in addition to

brushing.)
If you are not sure how to floss, then ask your dentist or dental hygienist.

Briefly: the usual floss looks a bit like cotton thread. Cut off about 40 cm.

Wind the ends round your middle fingers of each hand. Then grab the floss

between the thumbs and first finger to obtain a tight 3-4 cm section which

you can pull between teeth. Gently scrape the floss against the sides of each

tooth from the gum outwards. This will clean the narrow spaces between the

teeth which toothbrushes cannot get to. Use a fresh piece of floss each time.

Some people prefer floss 'tape' which slides between teeth more easily than

normal floss. Also, some people use disposable plastic 'forks' with a small

length of floss between the two prongs. The plastic fork may be easier to

hold and manipulate. However, they are expensive.

The gums may bleed a little when you first begin to floss. This should settle

within a few days. If it persists then see a dentist as regular bleeding

after flossing may indicate early gum disease.

Other general tips
Other things which are important to keep your teeth and gums healthy are:

* If you smoke, try to stop. Gum disease is more common in smokers than

non-smokers.
* Eat a well balanced healthy diet. In particular, you should limit the

amount of sugary foods and drinks that you have. Sugars and sugary foods in

the mouth are the main foods that bacteria thrive on to make acid which can

contribute to tooth decay.
* If children need medicines, wherever possible use sugar free medicines.
* Have regular dental checks at intervals recommended by your dentist

(this is normally at least once a year). A dentist can detect excessive build

up of plaque and remove calculus. Early gum disease can be detected and

treated to prevent it from getting worse.

Other things you can do if you have bad breath
The measures above are usually sufficient to look after your teeth. However,

if you also have bad breath coming from your mouth:

* Use an antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day. Just before bedtime is

probably the best time. The mouthwash aims to kill bacteria. (Young children

should not use a mouthwash if they may swallow it.)
* Clean the back of your tongue at least once a day. Some people do this

with a soft toothbrush dipped in mouthwash (not toothpaste). An easier way is

to buy a special plastic tongue scraper from a pharmacy. You need to place it

as far back as you can and then gently scrape forward to clear the tongue of

any coating.
* Some people chew sugar free gum after each meal. Chewing gum increases

the flow of saliva. Saliva helps to 'flush' the mouth to help clear any

debris remaining from the meal.
* If you have dentures and have bad breath, you may not be cleaning them

properly. Ask your dentist for advice as to how best to clean your dentures.

Causes and types of bad breath

2008-09-01T07:21:00.001-07:00

Coming from within the mouth
Most cases of bad breath come from problems within the mouth such as poor

oral hygiene or gum disease. This is discussed in more detail later in the

leaflet.

Morning bad breath
Most people have some degree of bad breath after a nights sleep. This is

normal and occurs because the mouth tends to get dry and stagnate overnight.

This usually clears when the flow of saliva increases soon after starting to

eat breakfast.

Foods, drinks and medicines
Chemicals in foods can get into the bloodstream, and then be breathed out

from the lungs. Most people are familiar with the smell of garlic, spicy

foods and alcoholic drinks on the breath of people who have recently eaten or

drunk these. Various other foods and medicines can cause a smell on the

breath. This type of bad breath is temporary and easily cured by not eating

the food. (However, some people eat spiced food every day and as a result

will constantly have a typical smell on their breath.)
If a medicine is causing the problem then discuss possible alternatives with

your doctor.

Smoking
Most non-smokers can tell if a person is a smoker by their breath which

'smells like an ashtray'. Stopping smoking is the only cure for this type of

bad breath. Smoking also increases the risk of developing gum disease,

another cause of bad breath.

Crash dieting or fasting
Can cause a 'sickly sweet smell' on the breath. This is due to chemicals

called ketones being made by the breakdown of fat. Some ketones are then

breathed out with each breath.

Medical causes
Other medical causes are uncommon. Some people with nose problems can get bad

breath. For example, a polyp in a nose, sinusitis or a 'foregin body' stuck

in a nostril (occurs most commonly in children) can cause a bad smell. In

this situation the smell tends to occur only, or more severely, when you

breathe out through your nose. It is not so noticeable when you breathe out

through your mouth. Lung or tonsil infections are sometimes a cause. Other

causes are rare.
However, in these 'medical' cases, there are usually other symptoms that

would indicate the cause. For example, a blocked nose, sinus pain, chest

symptoms, etc. If you are otherwise well and have no other symptoms apart

from bad breath, the bad smell is likely to be coming from the mouth and

other 'medical' causes are unlikely.

Bad breath coming from within the mouth
As mentioned, in most people who have bad breath the bad smell is thought to

come from bacteria within the mouth. As the bacteria break down proteins and

other debris in the mouth, they release foul smelling gases. One or more of

the following may contribute to the build up of bacteria and bad breath.

* Food stuck between teeth. Normal teeth brushing may not clear bits of

food (particularly tiny bits of meat) which can get stuck between teeth. The

food then rots and becomes riddled with bacteria. Regular flossing can clear

and prevent this problem.
* Plaque, calculus and gum disease. Dental plaque is a soft whitish

deposit that forms on the surface of teeth. It forms when bacteria combine

with food and saliva. Plaque contains many types of bacteria. Calculus,

sometimes called tartar, is hardened calcified plaque. It sticks firmly to

teeth. Gum disease means infection or inflammation of the tissues that

surround the teeth. If your gums look inflamed, or regularly bleed when you

clean your teeth, you are likely to have gum disease. The severity can range

form mild to severe.
* Coating on the back of the tongue. In some people, a 'coating' develops

on the back part of the tongue. It is not clear why this occurs. It may be

from mucus that drips down from the back of the nose ('post nasal drip'). The

coating can contain many bacteria.
* Mouth tumours that ulcerate and become infected are an uncommon cause

of bad breath.

The treatment of bad breath coming from within the mouth is good oral

hygiene.

Bad Breath May Indicate More Than What You Had for Lunch

2008-09-01T07:18:00.001-07:00

Recent studies have shown up to 90% of all cases of halitosis (bad breath)

can be contributed to harmful bacteria that are not removed by brushing,

flossing, or gargling alone.

The American Dental Association News recently reported that halitosis experts

agree that the dominant cause of bad breath is the bacteria on the tongue.

The bacteria release odorous byproducts (known as Volatile Sulfur Compounds,

or VSCs – similar to the gasses released by a rotten egg) as they thrive on

the tongue. These stinkers also arise from active gum disease. In fact,

according to recent research, VSCs may even be the first factor in initiating

gum disease.

As plaque is to the teeth and gums, coating is to the tongue. Brushing alone

does not solve the problem.

Our ;normal hygiene routine doesn't work against the bacteria on the tongue

because we simply are not properly cleaning our tongues.

Primary Cause of Halitosis
The diagram illustrates how the bacteria hiding under the coating of the

tongue lead to bad breath and plaque:

The tongue is a rough surface that provides the bacteria with plenty of

hiding places. When we eat, debris left over from food and normal mucus

production build the coating on our tongues. This coating provides the

bacteria with a safe hiding place. Why is it safe? Because the bacteria are

anaerobic – oxygen is lethal to them. So the bacteria, hidden in the safety

of the tongue's coating, do their dirty work releasing odorous gasses in the

process.

This is the primary cause of halitosis. It also leads to increased risk of

decay (especially root surface decay), and a decreased sense of taste.

Some companies would have you believe that bad breath is caused by a sour

stomach. This is true only in about 1 of 10 people, and that type of bad

breath is temporary.

Self Test for Halitosis (Bad Breath)

Cup your hand over your nose and mouth and exhale. Do you smell anything?

If you do, you have probably eaten something today that is causing the odor.

As mentioned above, this type of halitosis is usually temporary (lasting from

a few hours to a few days).

If you do not smell an odor, there are two possibilities:

1. You do not have bad breath
2. You have bad breath, but your nose has desensitized itself (just as one

gets used to an odor in a room after being in it for some time).

Self-testing simply is not reliable for this reason. You can risk it (and

your social life)… or you can be safe.
According to the ADA News, tongue cleaning is the most effective weapon

dentists can offer to fight halitosis. And, tongue cleaning yields numerous

oral hygiene benefits.

Still dying to know if your breath is offensive? The nose (not yours!) knows.

Ask a close (honest) friend, or your dentist or hygienist. You can also watch

for these clues. Do people tend to…

* Stand far away from you in conversation?
* Turn their heads away when you are speaking?
* Kiss you on the cheek (instead of the lips)?

If so, you may have halitosis (bad breath).

A recent study showed that mouthwashes (even antibacterial brands), gums, and

breath mints merely mask the problem. They only work for a short time (an

hour at most) because the bacteria are still alive and well. Even if you are

using an antibacterial mouth-wash, the bacteria are comfortable lurking in

the safety under the coating of the tongue.All of the mouthwashes currently

available over the counter add to the compost pile on the tongue, instead of

reducing it.

The key is to remove the coating on the tongue.

There is one type of mouthwash that works in conjunction with tongue cleaning

for optimum hygiene. Ask your dentist for a mouthwash containing chlorine

dioxide. Use it after you clean your tongue.

Many people ask me if brushing the tongue with a toothbrush is enough to

remove the coating. Although brushing the tongue is a step in the right

direction, it merely loosens the coating. It does not remove< it. Removing

the coating is crucial to killing the bacteria that cause bad breath.

There are tongue cleaners available today on the market. They are devices

that glide gently along the top of the tongue and remove the coating.

I recommend that my patients clean their tongue when brushing the teeth. Once

or twice daily is best. You should first clean your tongue, then brush,

floss, waterpik, and rinse with the special mouthwash if you have it.

Although tongue cleaners have been used around the world for centuries as

part of regular oral hygiene, tongue cleaning is new to the United States.

Many cultures feel that toxins in the body are released through the tongue as

evidenced by the coating.

Today, tongue cleaners may still be hard to find, however, I expect them to

be as common as the toothbrush or dental floss in the next decade. In

addition to freshening breath, tongue cleaning reduces the risk of decay and

improves the sense of taste.

When purchasing a tongue cleaner, look for the following:

* Effectiveness
* Durability
* Strength
* Ease of Use

I do not recommend plastic tongue cleaners. In addition to being expensive

(the companies recommend that you replace the cleaner monthly, or every 3

months at least), the flimsy plastic will not remove the coating. In short,

they are ineffective.

I prefer the tongue cleaners made of stainless steel because they are

durable, keep their shape and have an effective edge for cleaning. Make sure

that the cleaner you choose has a narrow tip that can easily reach the back

of the tongue – the favorite hiding place of VSC-producing bacteria. I would

again recommend BreathaidTM because it meets these important criteria.

Remember that tongue cleaning is essential to preventing bad breath and

maintaining optimum oral health.

Bad Breath Symptoms And Cure

2008-08-18T07:09:00.001-07:00

Until recently, most treatments have been generally unsuccessful in resolving

bad breath conditions. Common treatments such as mouthwashes, mints, chewing

gums, mouth sprays, and intestinal cleansings otherwise known as colonics,

are simply inadequate. There are many websites offering "magic" breath

products. Of course, these are a waste of money. Serious, persistent, chronic

bad breath is now very much treatable.

Some bad breath symptoms are sour taste, metallic taste, post nasal drainage,

film on tongue, dry mouth, white nodules on the tonsils, and yellow film.

Before revealing the cure here are some further explanations:

A White or Yellow Film on the Tongue
This is a very common observation we see in halitosis sufferers. It is caused

by the accumulation of bacteria and nasal mucous, and tends to be heaviest in

the posterior regions of the tongue. The removal of this film typically does

not completely eliminate halitosis for most patients. The reason for this is

that the anaerobic bacteria that produce halitosis odors are found through

out the entire mouth and in the saliva. If you have longer or larger taste

buds (papillae), then you will have a greater potential to trap bacteria in

the tongue's papillae. If you have heavy amounts of these yellow or white

films there is a good chance you may have halitosis.

We have found that patients who rapidly build up films on their tongue often

have ongoing post nasal (mucous) drainage that they may or may not be aware

of. It is important to reduce this drainage using the Hydro Pulse sinus

irrigator and the Breath-Ease XL saline powder that is available on our

website.

Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common symptom with people suffering from halitosis, and it is

one of the main causes of halitosis. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia,

causes a number of changes to occur in the mouth. First of all, the bacteria

become more concentrated in the saliva and they tend to volatilize or

evaporate more readily into the air. When this occurs, bad breath will be

stronger and more noticeable at greater distances.

Additionally, the pH or acid/base balance of the mouth becomes altered, and

this provides an environment that is more conducive to the growth of

anaerobic bacteria. Because there is less saliva the flushing or cleansing

effect of saliva is reduced. This results in more bacteria and cellular

debris accumulating in the oral cavity.

Common causes of xerostomia are aging, insufficient fluid intake, using

alcohol based mouth rinses, and numerous medications. Some common medications

that can cause drying of the mouth are allergy medications, anti-depressives,

blood pressure medications, and diuretics just to name a few. Coffee is

considered a diuretic. Some less common causes are radiation treatment to the

head and neck areas, patients suffering from Sjogrens Syndrome, diabetes, and

other auto-immune diseases.

The first and simplest thing we recommend patients do is be sure that they

are consuming at least the recommended daily allowance of water which is

eight glasses of water per day. Chewing sugarless gum also helps to increase

salivary flow while chewing. Despite numerous products claiming they can

eliminate or significantly improve dry mouth conditions, we have only found

one product so far that significantly helps the problem. Besides causing

halitosis, xerostomia often results in a metallic or bitter taste in the

mouth. Without a doubt xerostomia is very difficult to eliminate entirely,

but even if a patient's xerostomia remains we can still effectively treat

their halitosis condition.

What to do if you have bad breath

2008-08-18T06:57:00.001-07:00

* Make sure that you clean your teeth well. Use fluoride toothpaste and a

soft toothbrush to clean your teeth twice a day. You could brush your tongue

at the same time.
* Floss between your teeth (get your dentist or dental therapist to show

you how to do this).
* Avoid foods that are sticky and high in sugars. Bacteria love sugary

food that sticks to your teeth!
* Have a drink of water after eating, and whenever your mouth feels dry.
* Mouth washes and breath fresheners can hide bad breath for a little

while, but they don't get to the cause of the problem and their effects do

not last. They are also rather expensive.
* If you are a smoker, try to kick the habit! Smelling like a dead

ashtray can be rather off-putting!

Signs of bad breath

2008-08-11T06:56:00.001-07:00

* It is not really possible to smell your own breath, so you need to

listen to what other people say about your breath.
* Some people say they have an unpleasant, metallic taste when they have

bad breath.
* Some people with bad breath have a white or greyish coating on their

tongue. Not everyone with this coating has bad breath.

Remember that most people have 'bad breath' when they wake up, so don't worry

about that. A drink of water will help clean your mouth.

Why does our mouth stink after a night's sleep despite brushing before going

2008-08-11T06:54:00.001-07:00

Bad breath, or `Halitosis' is a common problem, which often occurs due to

bacterial activity in the mouth.

Although brushing is a good mechanical aid for maintaining proper oral

hygiene, there are many factors that may cause morning bad breath or

halitosis. Some people suffer from bad breath without knowing it, while

others build up exaggerated fears about breath odour even though they do not

have it. Halitosis, also termed `oral malodour' is a foul or offensive odour

emanating from the oral cavity. It is caused primarily by volatile sulphur

compounds specifically hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan which result

from bacterial putrefaction of protein containing sulphur amino acids. These

products could be involved in the transition from good oral health to

gingivitis (inflammation of the gums or gingival) and then to periodontitis

(inflammation of supporting tissues of the teeth).

Local source of mouth odour is mainly the tongue. Post nasal drip on the back

of the tongue which occurs during sleep can also cause oral malodour in the

mornings and can cause throat infections in some cases. A coated tongue is

also said to be a cause of halitosis, due to excessive bacterial activity on

the tongue. The causes of bad breath can be divided into

Intraoral sources(sources inside the mouth which can cause bad breath)

Extraoral sources(sources outside the mouth or anywhere else in the body).

Intraoral sources include retention of odoriferous food particles on and

between the teeth, coated tongue and dehydration states which can cause

dryness of mouth leading to oral malodour. caries

Habits like smoking, alcoholism and pan chewing, artificial dentures,

insufficient salivary flow, gum problems, post nasal drip on the back of the

tongue cause bad breath. Any infections of the respiratory tract like

bronchitis, pneumonia can also cause bad breath.

Periodontitis (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the teeth) is one

condition if left untreated can cause bad breath from accumulated debris and

increased rate of putrefaction of the saliva.

There are many ways to prevent halitosis or oral malodour. Getting teeth

cleaned periodically in a dentist's office is one such practice.

Dental flossing along with tooth brushing helps in removing debris from in

between the teeth. Using a soft bristled toothbrush on your tongue, taking

plenty of liquid, cleaning your mouth after eating or drinking milk products,

fish, meat helps. If you are a denture wearer, soak the denture in antiseptic

solution overnight.

Chlorhexidine, Listerine and triclosan mouthwashes are available in the

market that can be used after consulting your dentist.

Thus halitosis can be prevented by education of people regarding brushing

techniques and other oral hygiene aids and motivation of people to make

behavioural and habitual changes thereby avoiding unnecessary anxiety and

apprehension

Tips for Controlling Bad Breath

2008-08-04T06:51:00.001-07:00

* Maintain a healthy smile. Schedule regular dental visits. If you are

concerned that you have constant bad breath, keep a log of what you eat.
* Make a list of over-the-counter and prescribed medications that you

take and bring it to your next check up. Let our participating dentists know

if you've had any surgery or illness or whether your medical history has

changed since your last visit. And avoid constant use of breath mints and

other hard lollies containing sugar which may cause tooth decay.
* Look for oral hygiene products that display the Australian Dental

Association seal of acceptance. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

and take time to brush your tongue. Once a day, use floss or another

interdental cleaner to clean between teeth. If you wear removable dentures,

take them out at night. Clean them thoroughly before replacing the next

morning.
* If you need extra help in controlling plaque, our participating

dentists may recommend using a special antimicrobial mouthrinse. A fluoride

mouthrinse used along with brushing and flossing can help prevent tooth

decay.
* If you're concerned about bad breath, talk with our participating

dentists. He or she can help you identify the cause and if it's due to an

oral condition, develop a treatment plan to help eliminate it.

Causes of Bad Breath

2008-08-04T06:50:00.001-07:00

Certain foods, tobacco, alcohol and some prescription or over-the-counter drugs may cause mouth odours. In a small percentage of cases, bad breath may have a systemic origin (something that affects the body generally) such as respiratory tract condition or other ailments.

However, a major source of bad breath in healthy people is microbial deposits on the tongue especially the back of the tongue where a bacterial coating harbours organisms and debris that contribute to bad breath. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath measurements by 70 percent.

Food stuck between teeth, around the gums and on the tongue may leave an unpleasant odour as it decays. Dentures that are not cleaned properly also can harbour odour causing food and bacteria.

Certain foods such as garlic and onions contribute to objectionable breath because they contain odour causing compounds. When these compounds enter the bloodstream, they are transferred to the lungs where they are exhaled. Using mouthwash temporarily masks mouth odour. Few studies have examined the long term effectiveness of a particular mouthwash on reducing bad breath.

Periodontal disease, a condition in which bacteria attack the tissues that surround and support teeth may play a role in creating bad breath.

Dry mouth, or xerostomia (pronounced 'zero-stov-me-uh'), is another condition that can cause bad breath. Under normal conditions, saliva removes many particles that cause odour. Dry mouth occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Some medications, salivary gland problems or continuous mouth breathing also may contribute to bad breath. If you have dry mouth, our participating dentists may prescribe artificial saliva or suggest using sugarless lollies and increasing your fluid intake.

Tobacco products cause bad breath, stain teeth and irritate tissues.

If our participating dentists rule out the above causes and you practice good oral hygiene including thorough tongue brushing, bad breath may be the result of a local infection in the respiratory tract (nose, throat, windpipe, lungs), chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, or a liver or kidney ailment. If your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your family doctor or a specialist to determine the cause of your bad breath.

What can you do for yourself?

2008-07-28T06:47:00.001-07:00

# Maintain a high level of oral and dental hygiene. In addition to brushing,

it is important to clean between the teeth using dental floss, woodsticks or

an inter-dental brush as recommended by your dentist or pharmacist.
# Use a tongue cleaner and clean right to the back of the tongue.
# Use a mouthwash recommended by your dentist or pharmacist. The best time to

use it is just before sleeping.
# Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding too much coffee.
# Clean your mouth after eating milk products, fish and meat.
# Chew sugar-free gum, especially if your mouth feels dry.
# Eat fresh, fibrous vegetables.
# Visit your dentist regularly and have your teeth professionally cleaned as

required.

How can bad breath be treated?

2008-07-28T06:46:00.001-07:00

# Factors that affect the mouth and cause bad breath

o Dental decay.
o Gum disease.
o Food stagnation between the teeth.
o Dry mouth.
o Excessive bacterial activity on the tongue, possibly due to postnasal drip

(catarrh coming down the back of the throat from the sinuses and nasal

passages).
o Throat or tonsil infection.
o Catarrh.

# Factors that affect the airways and cause bad breath
o Sinusitis.
o Polyps.
o Dryness.
o Foreign body.
o Hindered air or mucus flow.
o Bronchitis.
o Pneumonia.
o Bronchiectasis (dilation of the bronchi of the lungs, usually from previous

infection).

# Factors that affect the oesophagus and stomach and cause bad breath

o Gastritis and food reflux.
o Food stagnation.

In rare cases, bad breath can be a sign of a significant general health

problem, so it should not be ignored. However, the usual cause is oral, which

can often be treated to resolve the problem.

As bad breath is almost always caused by a problem in the mouth, it is

helpful to visit a dentist. Do not try to mask the odour before the visit -

it needs to be as typical as possible.

If there is any dental treatment required to eliminate disease or avoid food

stagnation areas, this will be carried out. If no oral cause can be

identified by the dentist, it may be necessary to attend a clinic that

specialises in breath odours, or to visit other health professionals.

Some people become excessively concerned about bad breath, in which case a

psychological professional can help put what may in reality be a minor

problem into perspective.

What causes Bad Breath Odor (Excessive Volatile Sulfur Compounds)?

2008-07-21T06:44:00.001-07:00

What causes Bad Breath Odor (Excessive Volatile Sulfur Compounds)?

Anything that decreases the flow of saliva or stimulates the growth of anaerobic bacteria.

Saliva irrigates the mouth, stimulates swallowing thereby flushing away debris. Morning breath occurs due to decreased salivary flow during sleep. As saliva contains oxygen, the dryer your mouth and the thicker your saliva, the less the washing action and the lower the oxygen level creating a more anaerobic environment for bacteria to produce sulfur compounds. This oral stagnation is more pronounced in mouth breathers and those who snore. Alcohol and even certain mouthwashes containing alcohol can dry the oral tissues causing bacteria to profilerate. Certain medications for high blood pressure, antihistamines and depression can decrease saliva flow. Dehydration and stress also reduces the flow of saliva.

These anaerobic bacteria breakdown proteins as the start to digestion, and produce these sulfur compounds as a by-product. These proteins come from oral cellular debris (poor oral hygiene), dead bacteria, saliva, food debris, mucous, post nasal drip and phlegm. Certain conditions cause these bacteria to produce these VSC at an unusually rapid rate. Types of foods may include dairy products especially if you are lactose intolerant and certain foods high in protein. Numerous antibiotics or sulfa-drugs upset the balance of bacterial flora causing some to proliferate and others to perish. An important factor in bacterial growth is the pH of the mouth. Bacteria reproduce faster in a more acid environment. Coffee and acidic foods increase acidity. Hormonal changes have even been implicated with bad breath. During menstruation, estrogen causes sloughing of body lining tissue including that of the mouth. This gives additional nutrition for anaerobic bacteria. Then their is the luck of the draw....your genetics. We all have a different tongue morphology. The more fissured the tongue, the greater the anaerobic environment and the higher the level of VSC.

Causes of BAD BREATH?

2008-07-21T06:42:00.001-07:00

Bad breath is not contagious and you cannot catch it from someone else.

Secondly, chronic bad breath (Halitosis) does not come from the stomach. The

only stomach odor that someone smells occurs when you burp. Certain foods

like garlic and spicy foods once absorbed into the body can release odor

through the lungs when your breathe. This food odor is transitory and should

not be confused with bad breath. Air flow though the nose of someone with bad

breath does not have an offensive odor, only air flow through the mouth.

Because our sense of smell has the ability to adjust to odor most people with

halitosis are not aware of their bad breath.

Nearly all bad breath originates from the mouth, mostly from the surface of

the tongue, below the gum line, between the teeth and other hard to reach

areas. The mouth is normally inhabited by bacteria and the balance between

the different kinds of bacteria determines the quality of your breath. The

odor causing bacteria are anaerobic which means they cannot live in the

presence of oxygen. These anaerobic bacteria inhabit the surface of the

tongue by residing between the papillae of the tongue which is oxygen

deficient i.e. they live "within" the tongue. These bacteria cannot be

removed completely with a tongue scraper and will recolonize the mouth

following antibody therapy. These naturally occurring bacteria feed on

proteins (oral debris) and produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) as a

by-product of metabolism causing the malodor of bad breath.

Everyone has some level of VSC in their mouth, but it is at a low level that

cannot be detected by the nose. When these levels of VSC gets high it becomes

detectable as bad breath. Halitosis is rarely associated with certain medical

conditions - e.g.: diabetes. If the onset is sudden, grows noticeably worse

over a short period of time and is associated with fever, see a doctor.

Bad Breath In Child – Causes and Bad Breath Solutions

2008-07-13T11:02:00.001-07:00

Bad Breath In Child – Causes and Bad Breath Solutions

Bad breath in a child is less common than bad breath in adults; however, it is just as debilitating. A person of any age can experience the often distressing side effects of bad breath. Child behavior actually puts children at more risk for social embarrassment as a result of bad breath; a child is more likely to make fun of another child for halitosis than an adult might be. While there are many factors that may cause both adults and children to have bad breath, child specific symptoms include:

• Poor saliva flow at night
• Poor brushing habits
• Sucking on thumb or other object
• Tooth decay
• Sinus infection

Bad breath in a child is rarely caused by an actual medical problem, and is most often the result of poor dental care. KIDS OraDR is the perfect solution for curing your child's bad breath. Child dental products feature flavors, sparkles and many other bells and whistles to "make brushing fun," but these products also make brushing dangerous. Most commercial toothpastes and mouthwashes are labeled with a government warning due to the potentially harmful toxins and poisons used in these products. To stop bad breath in a child, KIDS OraDR is an all-natural 100% pure herbal solution, flavor mint bubblegum, for bad breath. A child can use KIDS OraDR eliminate bad breath safely, without being exposed to poisonous chemicals.

Bad Breath and Tonsils

2008-07-13T11:00:00.001-07:00

Bad breath and tonsils stones (tonsilloliths) are generally two related problems. Microbacterial organisms inside your mouth are the primary cause of bad breath. Tonsils stones are formed when sulfur from these organisms combine with debris in your mouth. The reason that these two conditions are so often linked is that the sulfur produced by the bacteria is the most likely cause of bad breath, and tonsils stones are just a symptom that these bacterial organisms are present in your mouth.

Bad breath and tonsils stones can be treated with oral care products that reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath. The tonsils stones will then disappear because the sulfur compounds are no longer present. OraDR is specially formulated from the essential oils of almond, spearmint and peppermint to kill the bacteria in your mouth that cause bad breath. Tonsils stones can also be treated with this product and a medication to reduce post nasal drip that may be causing the debris present in the mouth.

A Bad Breath Solution That Is Safe and Effective

2008-07-06T10:54:00.001-07:00

Your Bad Breath Solution May Be Harmful!

A bad breath solution is generally worth its potential side effects to people who suffer from chronic bad breath. This condition can be so embarrassing and, in some cases, socially debilitating that sufferers will gladly use any bad breath solution that actually succeeds in eliminating bad breath without a second thought. However, there is something you might not know about your bad breath solution.

The bad breath solution you use, like most oral care products, probably contains sodium fluoride. You may even know this, but what you probably don't know is that this ingredient contained in almost every bad breath solution has been linked to serious conditions and diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer's. The FDA lists fluoride as an "unapproved new drug," and the EPA lists it as a "contaminant." This chemical is actually considered to be dangerous enough to warrant an FDA warning on your bad breath solution - An FDA warning is the same type of warning found on known harmful products such as cigarettes.
Cure Your Bad Breath Without Exposing Yourself

Breath Refresher OraDR is an alternative bad breath solution that contains absolutely no sodium fluoride. Our bad breath solution is all-natural and made from the essential oils of almond, spearmint and peppermint. There are no other ingredients! Finally, there is an effective bad breath solution that contains absolutely no potentially hazardous chemicals or toxins. You do not have to continue using a bad breath solution that may eventually kill you.

Bad Breath and Diabetes – the link between them.

2008-07-06T10:52:00.001-07:00

Bad breath and diabetes are two conditions that often occur mysteriously at the same time. While your doctor may not have told you that there is a link between bad breath and diabetes, if you have chronic bad breath and diabetes, the two are probably related. Poor blood sugar control increases your risk of bad breath, and diabetes sufferers fit this description. High blood sugar levels make gum disease worse, a common cause of bad breath, and diabetes then becomes harder to control due to the gum disease. So not only is bad breath more likely to occur in diabetes sufferers, but bad breath and diabetes each in turn cause the other condition to become harder to control and deal with.

Bad breath and diabetes should be monitored carefully, and people with diabetes should try to pay special attention to their dental care to prevent the gum disease that can cause chronic bad breath. Many toothpastes and mouthwashes are ineffective at preventing bad breath and gum disease; however, we offer an all-natural, sugar-free product that is more effective than most over the counter oral care products in dealing with bad breath and diabetes.

Eliminate Bad Breath Forever With Our All-Natural Product

2008-06-29T10:50:00.001-07:00

Eliminate bad breath forever. It sounds like just another marketing ploy. You've probably tried everything to eliminate bad breath and found that no bad breath solution seems to offer permanent results. Most products claiming to eliminate bad breath do not eliminate bad breath at all, but instead work for 30-45 minutes by simply masking the odor. Once these products stop working, they leave behind a residue of sugar that feeds the bacteria that cause halitosis and actually make bad breath worse.

To eliminate bad breath, you already know that you have to do more than just cover it up. You need to fight halitosis at its source: the bacteria that grow and collect inside your mouth. None of the chemicals found in conventional toothpastes and mouthwashes have been proving to eliminate bad breath or the bacteria that causes it. However, in several countries, studies have been conducted that concluded that the essential oils of peppermint actually work to eliminate bad breath by killing many forms of bacteria, including the kind that causes bad breath.

Breath Refresher OraDR is a new all-natural product made from the essential oils of peppermint, spearmint and almond that can actually help you eliminate bad breath for good. Maybe it feels like you've tried everything to eliminate bad breath, but we promise that if your bad breath isn't cured, you haven't tried this. If you're still skeptical, we offer a money-back guarantee if Breath Refresher OraDR doesn't eliminate your bad breath for good. What have you got to lose?

Bad Breath In A Toddler

2008-06-29T10:49:00.001-07:00

Bad breath in a toddler can be a scary thing. You know you are brushing your toddler's teeth, yet he still has bad breath. A toddler may have bad breath for serious reasons, and if you notice chronic bad breath in a toddler, you should have a pediatrician examine him for any potentially serious conditions or foreign objects lodged in passageways that may cause nasal drip (a common cause of bad breath). A toddler who has been examined by a doctor and still suffers from bad breath can be easily helped with our all-natural herbal remedy.

Bad breath in a toddler can be difficult to treat because so many products are harmful to very young children. However, KIDS OraDR is completely safe to use in anyone of any age who is suffering from bad breath because it is 100% pure herbal all natural, flavor mint bubblegum. Many people have found that KIDS OraDR is more effective in preventing bad breath, and a toddler often has one of the toughest cases of bad breath caused by chronic thumb sucking or poor dental care. Try our product on the bad breath of a toddler, and if it does not work, we offer a money-back guarantee.

Bad Breath (Halitosis) – What Causes it?

2008-06-22T10:45:00.001-07:00

Bad Breath (Halitosis) – What Causes it?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can cause a great deal of social discomfort when it comes to business meetings, dating, or even simple conversations. This is a problem that plagues people all over the world, but for some reason it seems to be one of the hardest conditions to cure. Many people with chronic bad breath, or halitosis, have tried everything from breath mints to mouthwashes and even prescription medications, but nothing seems to eliminate bad breath (halitosis). The reason that these products do not actually work is that they do not effectively fight the causes of bad breath (halitosis).

Bad breath, or halitosis, is caused by bacteria that builds up in the mouth after eating. The mouth makes a great home for bacteria, and it begins seeking out sources of food so that it can grow and make the problem even worse. Most products do not contain any ingredients that actively fight this bacteria, so they can only temporarily cover up bad breath (halitosis) rather than actually eliminating it.
Bad Breath and Halitosis Can Not Be Cured With Breath Mints

In fact, your average bad breath cure contains sugar, a favorite food of the bacteria that causes bad breath. Halitosis, as a result, is actually made worse by these products that allow the bacteria to grow and thrive.

Our new bad breath (halitosis) remedy actually treats the problem, using essential oils of almond, spearmint and peppermint. Peppermint oils have been clinically proven to fight and reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath or halitosis, unlike other products whose primary ingredient is sugar. Breath Refresher OraDR is an all-natural, 100% herbal product that is guaranteed to be far more effective than any other product available for the treatment of bad breath and halitosis.

Bad Breath Toothpaste

2008-06-22T10:43:00.001-07:00

Bad breath, toothpaste and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is bad news. Avoid this combination if you want to avoid bad breath. Toothpaste with SLS, which also happens to be the main ingredient in shampoos, acts as a detergent and could damage delicate oral tissues. If you have bad breath, toothpaste with SLS may dry out your mouth—and dryness of the mouth is one of the causes of bad breath.

Bad breath, toothpaste, and fluoride should also be avoided. When fighting bad breath, toothpaste with fluoride shouldn't be used because it has been proven to be harmful to humans and ineffective against fighting tooth decay. While it doesn't cure bad breath, toothpaste (family-sized tube) containing fluoride is enough to kill a 25-pound child. Furthermore, fluoride is more poisonous than lead and isn't even FDA approved.

To help combat bad breath, toothpaste made of natural ingredients is an effective alternative to toothpastes that contain dangerous and toxic chemicals.

Bad Breath Cure Natural

2008-06-15T10:42:00.001-07:00

A bad breath cure (natural) in combination with medical care and used with your dentist's approval may help control halitosis. Spicy foods, medication, tobacco and coffee may all cause bad breath, but a bad breath cure (natural) may help to freshen things up a bit.

A bad breath cure (natural) consisting of aromatherapy may prevent your bad breath from knocking someone over. Applying a drop of pure peppermint essential oil on the tongue is a quick bad breath cure (natural). Chewing a few fennel seeds is another bad breath cure (natural) because fennel has a clean licorice taste.

Homeopathy can also be used as a bad breath cure (natural). Mercurius can be utilized as a bad breath cure (natural) if a 30X dose is taken three or four times a day for three to four days. For an additional bad breath cure (natural), gargle at least once a day with a solution of 20 drops of Calendula tincture diluted in eight ounces of water.

If bad breath persists despite practicing good oral hygiene and using a bad breath cure (natural), it could be a sign of something serious, such as tonsillitis, liver or kidney problems or diabetes.

Treating Bad Breath

2008-06-15T10:40:00.001-07:00

Treating bad breath doesn't have to be like losing a war. If you are always using breath mints, breath sprays, or mouthwashes as a way of treating bad breath, you may have a more serious dental or medical problem that needs to be dealt with.

Treating bad breath has many alternatives. For one, drink plenty of water because saliva normally keeps the mouth moist. A dry mouth is not helpful when treating bad breath as it presents the ideal conditions for odor-causing bacteria to thrive. Additionally, saliva helps in treating bad breath because it washes away the food particles that bacteria feed on and dissolves odorous volatile sulfur compounds.

Chewing sugarless gum can aid in treating bad breath. If you can't brush after a meal or snack, chew sugarless gum because the chewing action helps cleanse the teeth and stimulate the flow of saliva, which aids in treating bad breath.

When treating bad breath, it's a good idea to keep a log of the foods you eat and any medications you may be taking. Treating bad breath due to food is easy; the odor will be gone once the food is out of your bloodstream.

Treating bad breath has many options; however, good oral hygiene must always be emphasized. When treating bad breath, brush at least twice a day with a bacteria fighting toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque.

Bad Breath Herbal

2008-06-08T10:39:00.001-07:00

Bad breath herbal products are recommended by many doctors and practitioners of holistic medicine. Many believe that a bad breath herbal remedy is a better, healthier form of bad breath treatment than other unnatural substances often used to treat bad breath. Herbs are Nature's medicine, and the body is better equipped to accept a bad breath herbal remedy. Bad breath herbal remedy treatment is important for healthy teeth and gums, preventing canker sores, receding gums, periodontal disease and other dental health problems.

You may need a bad breath herbal remedy that treats gingivitis, gum disease and other problems of the teeth, gums and mouth. Suppliers of bad breath medicine natural sources are available online. Bad breath herbal remedy treatments are natural ways to better health.

Bad breath herbal remedy sources come from plants found in nature. These are the natural ways to treat bad breath, and bad breath herbal ingredients are still considered by many to be the best source of bad breath herbal remedy ingredients. A herbal bad breath remedy does not dry out the mouth or cause other health problems that may be associated with unnatural products.

Bad Breath Cause - Treatment

2008-06-08T10:36:00.001-07:00

Bad breath cause - treatment relationships are important concepts to understand. Different causes of bad breath require different treatments. Understanding bad breath cause - treatment relationships can help you and your dentist correctly match up the bad breath cause with the appropriate bad breath treatment.

Bad breath treatment cause breath to improve. These same treatments may also improve your overall health, as bad breath can be a sign of other problems. Respiratory tract infection (nose throat, windpipe, lungs), chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment. All of these can cause bad breath. Treatment may require more than simply brushing and flossing the teeth.

Bad breath is also sometimes caused by xerostomia, the medical term for "dry mouth." This occurs when the flow of saliva decreases, and may be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuously breathing through the mouth.

Bad breath cause - treatment relationships allow you to determine if your bad breath is being cause by gingivitis or simply by an order of extra garlic on your pizza. Bad breath cause, when matched with the appropriate bad breath treatment, can be corrected, but only if the bad breath cause - treatment relationship is understood. The bad breath cause - treatment relationship helps you determine the most appropriate medical care for your mouth, teeth and gums, and whether the problem is gingivitis, gum disease, periodontal disease, canker sores, or some other cause of bad breath.

You need to have a through understanding of the bad breath cause - treatment relationship if you want your mouth to be as healthy as possible.

Get rid of bad breath! Why? Bad breath makes a bad impression.

2008-06-02T08:50:00.001-07:00

Get rid of bad breath by taking good care of your mouth. Brushing and flossing can help you get rid of bad breath. Your dentist can suggest other ways of cleaning your mouth and helping you get rid of bad breath.

Mouth odors, sometimes called "foetor oris" by physicians, predominantly originates from the tongue coating, gingival crevice, and periodontal pockets. Plaque organisms--especially Porphyromonas gingivalis, fusobacteria, and other anaerobes--cause putrefaction, resulting in release of volatile chemicals, particularly sulphide compounds (including hydrogen sulphide, methylmercaptan, dimethyl sulphide, and dimethyl disulphide). Even healthy individuals may still experience bouts of bad breath, particularly after sleep (morning breath). People who refrain from oral hygiene soon develop malodour, but this is worse with any form of sepsis of the aerodigestive tract such as gingivitis, periodontitis, dental abscess, dry socket, sinusitis, tonsillitis, nasal foreign bodies, and tumours.

Bad breath is a signal from your body that something is wrong and needs your attention. Get rid of bad breath by getting rid of the problems that cause bad breath.

You may not know how your breath smells. Try this: Cup your hand over your mouth and nose and blow air out of your mouth. Then inhale. If you can smell your breath, then it is noticeable to others. If your breath smells bad to you, then it smells even worse to others. This is your body's way of telling you to get rid of bad breath. The best way to get rid of bad breath is with a natural substance that doesn't dry out the mouth or create other problems. Get rid of bad breath by getting rid of the source of bad breath.

Chronic Bad Breath

2008-06-02T08:30:00.001-07:00

Chronic Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath is different than the bad breath that nearly everyone has experienced after eating certain foods. Bad breath or halitosis usually stems from one of two things - the foods we eat and/or the bacteria living in our mouths. Bad breath odor that comes from foods we eat only stays with us until our body completely gets rid of the food, and therefore is not chronic bad breath.

Chronic bad breath, however, is harsh bad breath that won't go away. Chronic bad breath often begins with bacteria that generate sulfur compounds. These bacteria, which cause chronic bad breath, cannot stay alive in the presence of oxygen, so they hide in places where there isn't any air. Chronic bad breath can be the result of bacteria located under plaque and food debris, in the pockets between the teeth and gums, and in the hidden cracks of the tongue. Because the tongue's surface is exceptionally rough, large amounts of sulfur compounds can accumulate in this area, making it a haven for chronic bad breath germs.

One of the warning signs of periodontal disease is chronic bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. People who have periodontitis often suffer with chronic bad breath because of bacteria accumulating in areas that are not easily accessible.

Chronic bad breath may also be the sign of another health problem. Chronic bad breath can be caused by a respiratory tract infection, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, liver, or kidney disease. If your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to a specialist to determine the cause of your chronic bad breath.

Although it's more difficult to cure, treatment is often very effective for people who have chronic bad breath.

Try all-natural Breath Refresher OraDR with confidence. Our product works so well we unconditionally guarantee your total satisfaction with our money back guarantee 100% no questions asked.

Bad Breath Remedy

2008-05-26T08:27:00.001-07:00

Bad Breath Remedy

A bad breath remedy might be what you need to put yourself at ease and to boost your confidence level. One bad breath remedy is to avoid highly spiced foods. Spices tend to stay and pass through essential oils that are left in your mouth. Depending on how much you eat, you may need a bad breath remedy as food odor can linger in your mouth for up to 24 hours.

A bad breath remedy that works is to drink water. When you need a breath refresher, rinsing your mouth with water is an ideal bad breath remedy. Go to the restroom after meals and get a mouthful of water, swish it around, and rinse the smell of food from your mouth.

Parsley not only spices up your meals, it's also a bad breath remedy. Parsley is a natural bad breath remedy used by thoroughly chewing on the leaves. Other herbs and spices kept in your kitchen can be a natural bad breath remedy as well. For the unexpected times when you may need a bad breath remedy, carry a small plastic baggie of cloves, fennel, or anise seeds to chew after odorous meals.

To avoid potentially embarrassing moments when you need fresh breath, try a bad breath remedy and brush with a bacteria fighting toothpaste.

Try all-natural Breath Refresher OraDR with confidence. Our product works so well we unconditionally guarantee your total satisfaction with our money back guarantee 100% no questions asked.

Bad Breath Cause

2008-05-26T08:18:00.001-07:00

Bad breath causes can be related to a number of factors such as a medical disorder. Medical problems such as a respiratory tract infection, chronic sinusitis, diabetes, or a gastrointestinal disturbance may be the bad breath cause.

Bad breath causes can also be related to the condition known as xerostomia, which occurs when the saliva flow decreases. Saliva is essential to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may be a bad breath cause. Dry mouth, which can be a bad breath cause, is typically triggered by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuous breathing through the mouth.

Another potential bad breath cause is not brushing and flossing daily. Gum disease has been known to be a bad breath cause. In fact, a warning sign of periodontal problems is continual bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. When teeth are not brushed properly, the particles of food that remains in the mouth collect bacteria, which can be a bad breath cause. An additional bad breath cause is rancid food that accumulates between the teeth, on the tongue, and around the gums, therefore leaving an unpleasant odor.

Brushing with toothpaste that combats bacteria and other harmful toxins can eliminate a bad breath cause. Limit what can be a bad breath cause. Regular dental visits need to be scheduled every six months for a professional cleaning and thorough checkup.

Try all-natural Breath Refresher OraDR with confidence. Our product works so well we unconditionally guarantee your total satisfaction with our money back guarantee 100% no questions asked.

Bad Breath Cure

2008-05-19T08:15:00.001-07:00

Bad Breath Cure

A bad breath cure for your halitosis could be just around the corner. In the past, finding a bad breath cure may have been difficult, but recent research revealing the causes of bad breath has paved the way toward more effective treatments.

A bad breath cure needs to start with a trip to the dentist. Check with your dentist as he or she may have a new bad breath cure for you to try. Some cases of bad breath is caused by bacteria that live in the deep pockets of the tongue and gums, so mouthwash and tooth brushing alone are not always the best bad breath cure.

Various bad breath cures such as special mouthwashes or tongue brushes to reach plaque lurking in the crack of the tongue are available. An additional bad breath cure is to use a sonic toothbrush that blasts away the bacteria hiding in the gums.

Another possible bad breath cure is a special forMonday - Fridayitted plastic mouth tray that holds some peroxide right next to bacteria in your mouth. When using this bad breath cure, many patients see a huge improvement after two weeks, but for some, it can take anywhere up to three months.

Although a bad breath cure may help your halitosis, good oral hygiene is still essential or particles of food will remain in the mouth, and continue to cause bad breath.

Try all-natural Breath Refresher OraDR with confidence. Our product works so well we unconditionally guarantee your total satisfaction with our money back guarantee 100% no questions asked.

Halitosis Foods That Cause Bad Breath

2008-05-19T07:45:00.001-07:00

1. Foods high in proteins cause bad odor. Proteinis found in meat, fish and seafood, eggs. Cereal grains, peas, beans, and lentils are a so a source of protein as are the ingredient of foods like cakes.
Red meat is also one of the major causes, not just because of how it reacts in your mouth but because it is so hard to break down and digest. As the stomach acids interact with the red meat, this can cause foul odors to regurgitate back into your throat and cause bad breath.

2. Garlic, onions and exotic spices (such as curry) are common sources of problemsbad breath for many people. As these foods are digested, certain compounds are transmitted from the blood through the lungs and exhaled for up to 24 hours.

3. Dairy Foods such as milk, cheese, yoghurt, ice cream etc are terrible for your breath. For the majority of the population, the proteins found in dairy foods cannot be broken down because of a lack of a specific enzyme (lactose). The fat content does not matter, itâ™s the protein content that counts. Skim milk is just as bad as cream. This condition is known as Lactose Intolerance. The problem is that these bad breath bacteria can break down the dairy proteins (which are full of Sulphur) to produce odours and bad tastes.

4. Chewing gum and mint with sugar and then anaerobic bacteria break them down they produce Volatile Sulfur Compounds or bad breath.

5. Sugary foods are a problem because all bacteria thrive in a sugar environment. Sugar provides an excellent fuel for their growth. If you need to use mints and candies, make sure they are sugarless. Do not be fooled by the false sense of minty taste. Taste is merely one of our five senses. You can have a great taste in your mouth, but the fumes you are exhaling can be an offensive smell to someone else.
Stay away from candies, mints, and chewing gum if they contain sugar!

6. Alcohol: Regardless of whether it is contained in an alcoholic beverage or aFoods That Cause Bad Breath mouthwash, alcohol is a desiccant or drying agent. A dry mouth provides an excellent breeding ground for the anaerobic bacteria which cause bad breath.

7. Coffee: If you have to drink it, drink it in moderate amounts only. Coffee contains acids which cause anaerobic bacteria to reproduce more quickly. It does not matter whether you drink regular or decaffeinated coffee. Both contain high levels of acid.

And:
Donâ™t smoke: Not only does it make you and your breath stink right from the start, it also dries your mouth, contributing to accelerated anaerobic bacteria reproduction and bad breath. If you really want to prevent bad breath, you will not smoke.

Preventing and Fixing Bad Breath (Halitosis)

2008-05-19T07:04:00.001-07:00

Preventing and Fixing Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Many people have bad breath without even realizing it. This can cripple your likelihood of enjoying a healthy social life, finding a significant other, and even advancement in your career. Halitosis or bad breath is mostly a result of poor hygiene and is completely treatable. It is quite easy to prevent and fix bad breath with the following guidelines.

* Brush your teeth and scrape your tongue first thing every morning, and also after each time you take a nap. Foul-smelling bacteria have had a chance to take over your mouth while you slept, and are most likely causing yucky "morning breath." Tongue scrapers can be found in most health food stores, and also in drug stores and convenience stores as they become more popular.

* After you brush your teeth and scrape your tongue, rinse your mouth thoroughly and gargle with fresh, cool water. This is a very important step, one that many people overlook. Nobody likes to smell your breath when it's laden with dirty, used toothpaste scum.

* Drink plenty of water - Insuring that you drink plenty of water throughout the day can help to control bad breath (halitosis). This can be an especially important consideration for those people who suffer from xerostomia (chronically dry mouths).

If you allow yourself to become dehydrated your body will try to conserve moisture by reducing its production of saliva. Saliva has a cleansing and diluting effect on the bacteria and bacterial waste products that cause bad breath. A reduction in the amount of saliva in your mouth can make it harder for you to control odors associated with your breath.

* Rinse your mouth with water often - Rinsing with water can mitigate bad breath problems for brief periods of time. Rinsing will both dilute and partially remove the bacterial waste products that are the cause of breath odors.

Treatment Of Halitosis (bad breath)

2008-05-18T06:56:00.001-07:00

Treatment Of Halitosis (bad breath)
Bad Breath Treatment with Fenugreek

Among the several home remedies for halitosis, the use of fenugreek has proved most effective. A tea made from the seeds of this vegetable should be taken regularly for correcting the condition. This tea is prepared by putting one teaspoon of seeds in half a liter of cold water and allowing it to simmer for fifteen minutes over a low flame. It should then be strained and used as tea.
Bad Breath Treatment with Avocado

Another effective remedy for bad breath is avocado which is far superior to any mouth lotion or remedies for this condition. It effectively removes intestinal putrefaction or decomposition which is one of the most important causes of bad breath.
Bad Breath Treatment with Raw Juices

All fruit and vegetable juices are beneficial in the treatment of halitosis and should be taken liberally by those suffering from this disorder. Juices from green vegetables are especially valuable.
Bad Breath Treatment with Parsley

Parsley is a valuable cure for bad breath. Two cups of water should be boiled and several sprigs of parsley, coarsely chopped, should be steeped in this water along with two or three whole cloves or a quarter teaspoon of ground cloves. This mixture should be stirred occasionally while cooling. It should then be strained and used as a mouthwash or gargle several times a day.
Bad Breath Treatment with Guava:

Unripe guava is useful in halitosis. It is rich in tannic, malic, oxalic, and phosphoric acids as well as calcium, oxalate, and manganese. Chewing it is an excellent tonic for the teeth and gums. It helps cure bleeding from gums and stops bad breath. Chewing tender leaves of guava tree also stops bleeding from gums and bad breath.

DIET FOR HALITOSIS:

1. Eating fresh foods as close to the natural, unprocessed state as possible. A healthy diet includes daily servings of leafy green vegetables, whole grains, fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat. Keep the intake of sugar foods and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread and white rice) to a minimum.

2. After a meal, you can chew on a few seeds from the following list to aid in digestion and to freshen the breath: Anise, Cardamon, Fennel, Caraway, or Clove. Or, drink a cup of Mint tea.

3. Consider giving the digestive system a rest by trying a 3-day modified fast during which you drink a large amount of water and diluted fruit and vegetable juices or use a mono diet of only apples or only brown rice for 3 days. Fasting is contraindicated for children and pregnant women.

Ways to Fight Against Bad Breath

2008-05-17T06:54:00.001-07:00

Ways to Fight Against Bad Breath

* Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth thoroughly after every meal to remove food particle from the mouth.

* When you are brushing your teeth, also brush your tongue. The tongue is covered with thousands of tiny hairs that can trap bacteria.

* Have regular check-ups with your dentist to rule out gum disease and to correct any faulty restorations, overhanging fillings or leaking crowns, all of which can trap food in the mouth.

* Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless lozenges to increase the flow of saliva.

* If your mouth is dry, drink plenty of water. Try swooshing it around in your mouth for at least twenty seconds to loosen any food particles the bacteria can feed upon.

* Avoid breath mints and mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Instead of helping, they can make things worse. They only temporarily cover the smell and tend to dry the mouth, creating a more favorable environment for bacteria.

* Snacking on vegetables such as raw celery or carrots can keep plaque from forming.

* If you are going to an important meeting or on a big date, avoid foods that can cause bad breath, such as onions and garlic.

* Avoid alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can dry the mouth.

* Quit smoking. Tar and nicotine can build up on the surface of the teeth, tongue and cheeks. It can also dry the mouth and inhibit saliva flow.

* Chlorophyll is a natural breath freshener and is found in leafy green vegetables like parsley.

* A few drops of peppermint or tea tree oil can be applied to the tongue or toothbrush to help freshen the breath. In addition to its refreshing nature, their antibacterial properties will kill the bacteria found in the mouth.

* Baking soda has a long history of being used to maintain good oral health and for fighting bad breath.

* A mixture of 50% hydrogen peroxide and 50% water can be swooshed around in the mouth and used as a mouthwash. Hydrogen peroxide can kill many of the bacteria that can cause bad breath.

How Bad Is Your Breath?

2008-05-16T06:51:00.001-07:00

Bad breath, morning breath, breath odor or halitosis are all terms used to describe a noticeably unpleasant odor exhaled on the breath. Halitosis is not a problem by itself, but it can cause concerns in our interpersonal relationships.

We are all familiar with how the consumption of certain foods such as garlic and onions can affect our breath. This occurs because these foods are absorbed into our bloodstream, where they are transferred to our lungs and exhaled. Fortunately, bad breath caused by the foods we eat is only temporary.

What causes bad breath and halitosis really?

2008-05-15T06:49:00.001-07:00

What causes bad breath and halitosis really?

Many products have been marketed for the treatment of bad breath (also known as halitosis). These products include;

Mouthwash

Toothpaste

Baking Soda

Sprays, mints and gums

These products only treat bad breath / halitosis temporarily. What is not known about bad breath is that it is more than a simple annoyance. Bad breath most often starts at the back of the tongue and this huge accumulation of plague can affect the health of the gum tissues. Gum disease can also be a cause of bad breath. In minor cases, products such as mouthwash or toothpaste might help, but in most cases, this is not enough and can make the halitosis worse.

Although baking soda does kill oral bacteria and inactivates acids, acids are not the problem in the depths of a periodontal pocket nor at the deeper layers of the bacterial plaque on the back of the tongue. In the pocket and at the deeper layers of the bacteria at the back of the tongue where bad breath comes from, the pH is alkaline, not acidic. Neutralizing the acid on the surface of the bacterial plaque of the back of the tongue with baking soda serves to make the plaque more alkaline. The baking soda does not reach the deeper layers of that plaque on the back of the tongue to do any killing. The bacterial killing of baking soda in the gum tissue can be useful, but baking soda is not something I recommend. It pushes the mouth into an alkaline pH, which is the opposite direction one wants to put the pH to prevent halitosis or gum diseases, which thrive in this basic and putrefactive environment. The mouth must have a slightly acidic pH to prevent bad breath / halitosis.

Peroxide is also ineffective in preventing halitosis. Peroxides are oxygenating agents which can produce harmful free radicals and have been of concern to some health professionals when used for long periods of time in the presence of chroniccly inflamed tissue. Gum tissues are usually chronically inflamed and therefore are susceptible to negative effects of peroxides which can cause adverse cell changes to occur. Peroxides are also too quickly inactivated to do any antibacterial work at the concentrations they have in toothpastes. The approach I tend to favor in treating halitosis and gum disease is not primarily bacterial killing but instead the preservation of natural bacterial balance and then oxidizing, (not oxygenating), the VSCs that cause the odor. These VSCs also increase the permeability of the gum tissue pocket lining promoting bacterial invasion. I recommend oxidation of VSCs and zinc ion therapy contained in the products I recommend. I therefore believe three of the ingredients that should NOT be added to toothpastes and mouth rinses are baking soda, peroxide and alcohol! Unfortunately, almost all major toothpaste and mouthwash makers are jumping on the misguided baking soda and peroxide band wagon. Some of the mouthwashes contain very high levels of alcohol, from 8% to 25%. Alcohols can be harmful and I strongly urge consumers to stay away from them. They certainly can make bad breath worse.

Smoking too can make bad breath worse. Smoking and chewing tobacco dry out the mouth and again produce adverse tissue dryness and plasma secretions which are broken down by bacteria into volatile organic compounds. Anything which dries the mouth can promote bad breath, including some prescription drugs, alcohol consumption and some systemic diseases. Dry mouth can be caused by sinus congestion and nasal blockages. Rhinitis and nasal drainage also cause bad breath. Even dieting and diabetes can cause odor. These types of problems may require a physicians help but these products can still be of some help to these individuals. But remember again, the vast majority of halitosis comes from the mouth.

What Is Bad Breath?

2008-05-14T06:40:00.001-07:00

What Is Bad Breath?

It's reported that about 14-25 percent of Americans and 35-45 percent of the entire world's population have chronic bad breath and of course, you can assume that at least 99% of everyone else has "dragon breath" in the morning. Simply put, there are over 90 million people who suffer from simple bad breath to the more severe halitosis.

Bad Breath Market
Estimates of the amount of money spent in the United States to combat bad breath are staggering: American's, surveys claim, pay approximately $10 billion every year for breath mints, mouthwashes and rinses, gum, pills, toothpastes and a myriad of other products and treatments sold in stores and over the Internet. The sad thing is that many of these purchased items are completely ineffective, others just mask the problem they claim they will resolve, and a few others just make the problem worse.

Common Cause of Bad Breath
For most people the cause of their bad breath will come from their teeth, gums, and tongue. The bad odor will come from bacteria in the mouththat is the result of food particles left in the mouth after eating. Poor dental habits can also be a major contributing cause of bad breath. Decay in the mouth will produce a sulphur compound which leaves behind a bad smell.

If you have bad breath you'll want to take a look at your oral hygiene habits. When you brush your teeth make sure that you also brush your tongue, the inside of your cheeks, and the roof of your mouth. You want to be sure to remove all the food particles and bacteria from your mouth. You'll also want to make sure that you floss your teeth to remove any food particles that are trapped between your teeth. Use a mouthwash as a temporary solution to your bad breath, however if the problem is still there make sure that you talk to your dentist to see if you have gum disease or tooth decay.

Other Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath can also occur for other reasons that include a dry mouth, diabetes, infection, liver problems, or kidney failure. Smoking is another contributing factor. Many cancer patients will find that they have a dry mouth after they have undergone radiation therapy. Lack of saliva in the mouth can lead to bad breath since food particles won't be washed away. Other reasons why you may experience bad breath include stress, dieting, your age, hormonal problems, and snoring.

If you have an odor that emanates from the back of your mouth you may have post-nasal drip. Post-nasal drip occurs when the mucus that is secreted from your nose moves into your throat. The mucus then gets stuck on your tongue and this can produce a foul smell.

The number one thing that you need to keep mouth odors under control is an ample amount of saliva. Saliva is needed to wash away the bacteria and food particles that become stuck in your mouth. As you sleep the amount of saliva that is produced will lessen. This is why most people wake up with some level of morning breath. To get rid of morning breath you simply need to brush and floss your teeth so that the odor is washed away. Eating a morning meal is another way to get rid of morning breath since this will get the saliva flowing once again.

Bad breath need not be something you have suffer from for life. With the right habits and treatment, anyone can get rid of their bad breaths forever.

If you are looking for effective bad breath solutions, check this out.

What causes bad breath?

2008-05-13T06:37:00.001-07:00

What causes bad breath?

There are just as many causes of bad breath as there are sources of bacteria in the mouth. Halitosis may be caused by the following:

* certain foods
The things you eat contribute largely to your oral health care, including your breath. Items such as garlic and onions, or any food, are absorbed into the bloodstream, become transferred into the lungs, and become expelled in the air you breathe. Until that food becomes eliminated by the body, the potential for it affecting a person's breath is present.

* poor oral healthcare
Without proper and consistent brushing and flossing, and routine examinations by your dentist, food remains in the mouth, which is a breeding ground for bacteria, which, in turn, causes odorous breath. Food that is allowed to collect on the teeth, gums, and tongue may cause the gums to rot, which causes an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.

* improper cleaning of dentures
Dentures that are not cleaned properly may be collecting bacteria and remaining food particles which cause bad breath.

* periodontal disease
One of the primary symptoms of this gum disease is foul, odorous breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. This condition requires immediate care by an oral health professional.

* xerostomia (dry mouth)
This condition is often a large contributor to halitosis. Characterized by a significant decrease in saliva production, the mouth is unable to cleanse itself and remove debris and particles left behind by food. Xerostomia may be caused by certain medications, a salivary gland disorder, or by continuously breathing through the mouth, instead of the nose.

* tobacco products
Not only do tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and snuff stain the teeth and put the body at risk for a host of diseases, they also contribute to bad breath. Tobacco users also are at an increased risk for the following:

o periodontal disease
o a loss of taste abilities
o irritated gums

* a medical condition
Bad breath may be an indicator or symptom of any of the following conditions. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Consult your physician for a diagnosis:

o a respiratory infection

+ infection of the nose, windpipe, or lungs
+ chronic bronchitis
+ postnasal drip
+ chronic sinusitis

o diabetes
o a gastrointestinal disorder
o a liver or kidney disorder

Treatment for halitosis

:Specific treatment for halitosis will be determined by your physician or dentist based on:

* health of your mouth
* cause or origin of the condition
* extent of the condition
* your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
* your opinion or preference

Treatment primarily depends on the cause of the condition, including:
Cause

Possible Treatment Protocol
poor oral health care If the bad breath is of oral origin (improper oral healthcare), in most cases, your dentist will treat the cause of the problem.
gum disease If the cause of the halitosis is caused by an underlying gum disease, the condition may be treated by your dentist, or you may be referred to a oral specialist - in most cases, a periodontist. A periodontal cleaning often helps to remove the bacteria and plague that has accumulated and is wearing down the gumline.
extensive plaque build-up Your dentist or periodontist may recommend an antimicrobial mouthrinse (a therapeutic mouthrinse). Also, you may be instructed to brush your tongue gently each time you brush your teeth, to remove excess plaque and bacteria.

Bad Breath Treatment

2008-05-12T08:34:00.001-07:00

Bad breath treatment must get to the source of the problem if it is to be effective. Over 80% of the bacteria that causes bad breath originates at the back of the tongue. Bad breath treatments must reach this area if they are going to change the condition.

Bad breath treatment is an important part of good oral health. Bad breath may be a sign of an unhealthy mouth or some other unfavorable medical condition. Periodontal disease, gum disease, and sinus infections may all cause bad breath. Bad breath treatment should eliminate the cause of the bad breath. A bad breath treatment that only covers the odor is not really treating the problem.

Flossing and brushing are important parts of bad breath treatment. Dentists recommend soft-bristled toothbrushes. A good mouthwash may also be necessary if your bad breath treatment requires more. But - and this bears repeating - your bad breath treatment must eliminate the cause of the bad breath. Otherwise, it won't very long before you will need another bad breath treatment.

How you choose to treat your bad breath treatment is up to you. Your dentist or doctor can recommend a bad breath treatment that matches your lifestyle, including all-natural products designed especially for bad breath treatment. You don't have to let bad breath ruin your health or your social life. Bad breath treatment is easy and affordable. Your bad breath treatment may be only a breath away.

Try all-natural Breath Refresher OraDR with confidence. Our product works so well we unconditionally guarantee your total satisfaction with our money back guarantee 100% no questions asked.

Simple regimen eliminates chronic bad breath

2008-05-12T07:41:00.001-07:00

Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by the breakdown of bacteria in the mouth, producing foul-smelling sulfur compounds. It's estimated that 25 percent of adults suffer the embarrassment of chronic bad breath and the percentage may be as high as 50 percent in older adults.

In a 28-day study of 14 adults with chronic bad breath, Peter Moses, a student at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, and colleagues found that brushing twice daily with a toothpaste containing triclosan and scraping the tongue surface eliminated the problem.

Triclosan is an antibacterial agent used in acne medications, hand soaps, detergents and deodorants. "Most toothpastes do not contain triclosan," Dr. Joseph J. Zambon, who was involved in the research, told Reuters Health. Triclosan is found in Colgate Total toothpaste, made by Colgate-Palmolive Co., which sponsored the study.

At the beginning and end of the study, researchers measured mouth air levels of odor-causing bacteria and analyzed tongue scrapings for 20 species of bacteria known to cause bad breath.

According to the researchers, brushing twice daily with triclosan-containing toothpaste and using a tongue scraper reduced levels of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth from an average slightly more than 400 parts-per-billion at the start of the study to an average of 100 parts-per-billion at the end of the 28-day study period.

"All participants eliminated their halitosis after using this triclosan-containing toothpaste and a tongue cleaner," Moses said in a university statement.

"The fear of halitosis, known as halitophobia, sometimes is so great that up to 25 percent of people claiming to have halitosis actually don't," he added. "Halitophobia is associated with obsessive compulsive disorders and even has resulted in suicide, so there is a need for effective treatments for this condition."

Prevention of Bad Breath - Halitosis treatment

2008-05-12T06:31:00.001-07:00

Prevention of Bad Breath - Halitosis treatment

If you are looking for a cure for halitosis, try the following bad breath remedies :
Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush properly every morning and after every meal to remove bacteria from the teeth and cure halitosis. Proper flossing, at least once a day, removes food particles and dental plaque from between the teeth.
Proper diet. Be careful with what you eat, avoid foods like onions and garlic.
Increase saliva flow. Saliva acts as nature's mouthwash by keeping the mouth moist, washing away left-over food particles and bacteria, and dissolving foul smelling volatile sulfur compounds.
Drink a lot of water to keep your mouth moist and stimulate saliva flow, making the mouth less hospitable to odor causing bacteria.
Chew sugarless gums. Chewing action helps cleanse the teeth, stimulates the flow of saliva and freshen breath.
Use mouthwashes containing chlorine dioxide which attack and neutralize the sulfur compounds. Conventional mouthwashes mask bad breath odor only temporarily.
Brush your tongue. It has been found that almost 50% of the bacteria which cause halitosis reside on the tongue. Use a soft bristled toothbrush or a special device called a tongue cleaner (or tongue scraper) to gently clean the tongue.
Have a dental check up every 6 months. Your dentist can diagnose other problems which cause bad breath as abscesses, periodontal disease or systemic diseases. Visit your dentist if you start to have a chronic halitosis problem.
Increased attention on diet and oral hygiene can usually be an easy cure for halitosis, but in case of a chronic halitosis problem the required bad breath treatment might be much more difficult.

The causes of halitosis / bad breath

2008-05-11T06:29:00.001-07:00

The causes of halitosis / bad breath

Halitosis is an oral health problem mainly caused by excessive amount of volatile sulfur compounds (thiols) that give breath its foul odor.
Food. Eating foods containing volatile sulfur compounds, like garlic and onions or some spices, is one of the most common causes of temporary halitosis. After these foods are digested, the sulfur compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream, they're carried to the lungs and exit from the body during exhale, causing bad breath.
Poor dental hygiene. Infrequent or improper brushing and flossing can leave food particles to decay inside the mouth. Their breakdown can cause a foul odor.
Dental problems. Periodontal disease or an abscess at the base of a tooth can be the causes of bad breath due to bacteria emitting hydrogen sulfur vapors.
Dry mouth (xerostomia) . Saliva helps cleanse and moisten the mouth. A dry mouth enables the accumulation of dead cells on tongue, gums and cheeks. These cells then decompose and cause odor. Even for a short period of time like sleep, the reduce of saliva flow makes the mouth dry causing what is called 'morning breath'.
Systemic diseases. Several illnesses can cause a distinctive breath odor. Kidney failure can cause a urine-like odor and diabetes may cause a fruity breath odor. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), liver failure or lung infections also can cause bad breath.
Systemic diseases and dry mouth are the most common causes of chronic halitosis.
Smoking is another bad breath cause, as it dries out the mouth and causes unpleasant mouth odor.
Dieting and fasting may cause unpleasant "fruity" breath due to ketosis or ketoacidosis.

How to understand if you have halitosis problem

2008-05-10T06:27:00.001-07:00

How to understand if you have halitosis problem
If you notice that when you speak people around you try to keep you at a distance or take a step back, you have a first hint.
Put your hands in front of your mouth and nose, and exhale.
Lick the back of your wrist, let it dry for a minute or two and then smell it.
Ask a close friend if your breath is unpleasant.
Ask your dentist.
Use a halimeter (measures the levels of volatile sulfur compounds in the breath)

Certain foods, health conditions and habits are among the causes of halitosis. Most people can find a cure for halitosis with proper dental hygiene. If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, you have a chronic halitosis problem and you should visit your dentist or doctor to rule out a more serious condition that may be causing your bad breath.

When should I see my dentist about bad breath?

2008-05-09T06:22:00.001-07:00

When should I see my dentist about bad breath?

If daily flossing along with tooth and tongue brushing doesn't seem to help, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You may have gum disease, stubborn plaque, or another condition that requires treatment. If you're taking a prescription medicine and have persistent dry mouth, you may need to talk with your doctor about whether it's possible to switch to another drug. Hundreds of medications have the potential to dry out the mouth, and a different type or smaller dose could solve the problem.

In the best-case scenario, you may be one of the lucky ones whose breath gets rave reviews. If so, that doesn't mean you should ignore oral hygiene. Keep your mouth clean and moist, and you have a good chance of avoiding putrescine, cadaverine, and those other unwanted bacterial guests. Your breath will stay fresh, sighs of relief included.

-- Chris Woolston is an award-winning health and medical writer and a contributing editor at Consumer Health Interactive. He has also written for Hippocrates, WebMD, Health, and the Chronicle of Higher Education.

What else can I do to eliminate bad breath?

2008-05-08T06:20:00.001-07:00

What else can I do to eliminate bad breath?

In addition to good oral hygiene, regular meals (especially a good breakfast) can help keep your mouth moist and fresh. Avoiding cigarettes should be a top priority for anyone who cares about breath odor. And, of course, it's wise to go easy on the garlic and onions before a big date. If you have coffee breath, you might want to cut back on coffee, too.

Don't count on mints and gums to save your breath. Although they may make your mouth feel temporarily fresh and clean, they do little to fix the root cause of bad breath. And even though sugarless gum is recommended to help stimulate the production of saliva in people with dry mouths, at least one study has linked it to increased levels of methyl mercaptan, one of the principal components of bad breath.

How do I get rid of bad breath?

2008-05-07T06:18:00.001-07:00

How do I get rid of bad breath?

A clean mouth is the best defense against bad breath. See a dentist regularly, floss between your teeth every day, and brush with a fluoride toothpaste two to three times each day. (One study also found that toothpastes with a high concentration of baking soda reduced bad breath.) And don't neglect your tongue, especially the back section. By brushing it gently with a toothbrush or using a plastic tongue scraper (also gently!), you can deprive bacteria of a prime breeding ground. Go slowly and you'll learn to avoid the gag reflex. According to one study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, after dental and tongue cleaning, concentrations of key odor-causing bacteria dropped from 75 to 25 percent. Finally, have your teeth cleaned professionally by a dental hygienist every six months.

For extra protection, you can kill odor-causing germs by gargling a mouthwash right before bedtime. Only a few kinds appear to work well, however -- avoid brands that contains alcohol, since such a mouthwash has a drying effect and can accelerate the development of bad breath. Some dental researchers have found that mouthwashes containing zinc chloride, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine dioxide, or other oxidizing chemicals to be effective in reducing or eliminating bad breath. According to Dr. Harold Katz, founder of California Breath Clinics, the only effective mouthwashes are those that "oxidize" volatile sulfur compounds and turn them into non-odorous organic salts.

What's the link between gum disease and bad breath?

2008-05-06T06:16:00.001-07:00

What's the link between gum disease and bad breath?

Studies conducted over the last 50 years have confirmed the link between gum disease and offensive odor, according to a research review published in a leading dental journal in 2001. "A more disagreeable odor" emanated from the mouths of people with gum disease because their saliva putrefied more rapidly that that of healthy individuals, according to the review. Several clinical studies also showed elevated levels of VSCs in the pockets of inflamed gums, and the more diseased the gums, the higher the levels, the review reported. People with chronic gum disease also have more "tongue coating" -- and four times the production of odor-producing VSCs -- than individuals without gum disease. Finally, dental plaque, composed of bacteria as well as proteins, contributes to an unpleasant smell. All this adds up to what dentists refer to as "oral malodor," otherwise known as bad breath.

The Fundamentals of Bad Breath

2008-05-05T07:38:00.001-07:00

The Fundamentals of Bad Breath

When you experience bad breath, it is a biological reaction to your body's release of volatile sulfur into the atmosphere. This includes sulfur, hydrogen sulfide and methyl marcaptan.

Release of foul odors occurs when food remains in your mouth after brushing. The most common offender is food left in between your teeth. These small bits of food begin to rot and start to smell.

Culprits of Bad Breath

2008-05-05T07:36:00.001-07:00

Culprits of Bad Breath

Bad oral hygiene is the number one reason for foul breath. But there are other causes, including:

- Food -- When you eat smelly foods, the digestive process releases strong gases that smell unpleasant; these gases can be released 24 hours after you've eaten that stinky item. Common bad-breath-causing foods include garlic, onions, cheeses and dairy.

- Tongue -- The tongue harbors bacteria that if left to build up can cause bad breath.

- Medical conditions -- Severe kidney failure and diabetic ketaoacidosis can cause bad breath.

- Undigested foods from the stomach

- Large dose of vitamins

- Dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia)

- Cavities

- Abscessed teeth or impacted teeth

- Gingivitis (any form of gum disease)

Chief cause of bad breath: Bacteria

2008-05-05T06:12:00.001-07:00

Chief cause of bad breath: Bacteria

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, may go far beyond a tinge of garlic or onions. Like other types of body odor (the aroma of sweaty feet, for instance), many forms of halitosis are the handiwork of bacteria. When the germs that live in the mouth break down food particles and other debris, they often foul the air with highly pungent chemicals.

For example, some types of oral bacteria produce hydrogen sulfide, the compound that lends the distinctive aroma to rotten eggs. Others produce methyl mercaptan, the chemical that makes feces smell like feces. Still others release putrescine, the aroma of rotten meat. As for the bacteria that produce cadaverine ... well, the name says it all.

Hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and other compounds most often associated with bad breath are known in the dental trade as volatile sulfur compounds, or VSCs. ("Volatile" means "vaporous" and "effervescent," in this case.) These odor-causing compounds are produced by microbes that often live on bits of food that cling to the back of the tongue or get stuck between teeth. They can also thrive in the pockets between the gum and tooth, particularly if you have serious or even mild gum disease. Bacteria also tend to do extremely well in mouths that don't produce enough saliva to rinse away food particles. And if you have postnasal drip from chronic allergies or sinusitis, mucus can collect on the back of your tongue and provide rations for an army of bacteria.

Halitosis - Treating Bad Breath

2008-05-04T06:10:00.001-07:00

Halitosis - Treating Bad Breath
First of all, thorough brushing to remove food particles is a daily necessity. Regular check-ups to correct problem areas: gum disease, carious teeth, faulty restorations, overhanging fillings, leaking crowns, all of which cause food traps, is a must. For those over thirty, the odor of periodontal disease is a particularly common cause of halitosis and one which is easily treated.

Having made certain that your physical oral condition is as pristine as possible by brushing and flossing and proper diet and all the other good things, your method of attack is as follows.

1. Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless lozenges to increase saliva flow. Saliva is the mouth's natural mouthwash; it has antibiotic elements in it which reduce the numbers of bacteria in the mouth. Sugarless gum or candy is an absolute must. I've seen horrible cases of decay and gum disease arise from the habit of frequently eating sugar containing foods. Some people learn how to milk the salivary glands by sucking on the cheeks or tongue.
2. When saliva production diminishes, keep the mouth wet with a liberal intake of water. Experts advise drinking eight glasses of water a day for basic metabolic function, and it seems that keeping the mouth moist is a good way of keeping the bacterial flora of the mouth under control. Hold the water in the mouth as long as possible-minimum of twenty seconds, and swish it around to loosen food particles and other bits of debris that bacteria feed upon. The longer the water remains in the mouth the better.
3. Snack on carrots, celery, or other vegetables to keep plaque from forming.
4. Vitamin C deficiency may be a cofactor-factor on bad breath. Smokers, especially should take regular supplements of vitamin C since the nicotine in the cigarettes destroys vitamin C. A better tactic is to stop smoking all together, but if you're still puffing after hearing all the evidence, the fact that your own halitosis is polluting the air probably isn't going to change you much.
5. What works in the refrigerator may work in the mouth. Consider brushing your teeth and tongue with baking soda. This is admittedly kind of gross. Any of several brands of toothpaste containing baking soda can be used instead and are more palatable.
6. A handy portable, battery powered version of the water Pik is available. It can be easily transported in a purse or brief case and is one of the most powerful and certain ways of preventing bad breath; it really knocks the food particles out from between the teeth.
7. Consider any of the over-the-counter mouthwashes which do the same thing as rinsing the mouth with water, but also add a bit of odor neutralizing substances such as cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), zinc chloride (more about zinc in a bit.), or chlorhexidine. Look for products containing these compounds. Buying the mouthwash also makes the buyers a little wealthier, stimulates the economy, and maybe provides a sense of security. There is a prescription mouthwash called Peridex which seems to be a little more effective than the over-the- counter brands although its taste leaves something to be desired.
8. Before the big date, the business presentation, or the stress encounter consider rinsing the mouth with a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. A teaspoon of each is swished in the mouth for one full minute. Hydrogen peroxide releases free oxygen which is poisonous to many of the bacteria that cause bad breath. If things are really going to be tense, Maybe a tranquilizer or two might help also. (See your health care provider for advice on this)
9. Zinc and compounds of this metal have complex effects on the plaque forming process, and one researcher has suggested that zinc salts combined with ionone, an ingredient of tomato juice, appear to produce a much longer anti-plaque and anti-odor effect than either alone. Maybe those who favor bloody Mary's, virgin or real, in the morning, have hit upon the definitive cure for the jungle mouth.
10. In those cases where hunger odor is present, the way of correcting the problem is simple: just have a bit to eat.

The good news is that this scourge of humanity is not as much of a problem as its victims fear. Researches in the field find that at any one time only about one percent of the population has it, so many more people worry about bad breath than are actually afflicted. As a practicing dentist, I'm regularly asked about this phenomenon, and while gentle questioning of my patients indicates that almost everyone worries about bad breath, I find that I'm unable to detect it in most patients on examination. The conclusion, reinforced by many years of practical experience, is that bad breath isn't all that common. If however you have the risk factors given above, and if bad breath strikes you, the incidence is one hundred percent and the malady is real.

How can bad breath be treated?

2008-05-03T06:07:00.001-07:00

How can bad breath be treated?

Most cases of halitosis are caused by a problem in the mouth. For this reason, if your bad breath does not go away, see a dentist for a checkup.

If no oral cause is found, it may be necessary to see your GP to exclude a medical cause.

Simple improvements to oral hygiene will usually help halitosis. These include:

- brushing your teeth (& tongue) at least twice a day.

- using an oral mouthwash, especially at bedtime.

- stopping smoking.

- drinking plenty fluids to avoid a dry mouth.

- chewing sugar-free gum if your mouth is dry.

What are the medical causes of bad breath?

2008-05-02T06:05:00.001-07:00

What are the medical causes of bad breath?

Most reasons for halitosis are sited in the mouth.

Gum disease is the most common reason for bad breath and is caused by plaque.

Plaque is a mixture of food residues, dead gum cells and bacteria that forms between the gum and the tooth. The bacteria create an unpleasant odour and contribute to bleeding gums and loosening of teeth.

The cause of gum disease is often bad oral hygiene. If you do not regularly brush your teeth you will experience bad breath.

A coated, furry tongue is often a sign of indigestion, smoking or dehydration - all of which can make breath smell.

Any infections around the mouth and throat might be significant. Nasal congestion, sinus infections, tonsillitis and swollen adenoids could all contribute. So could indigestion caused by acid reflux from a hiatus hernia.

Even lung disorders such as chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis (where infected sputum is present) may play a part.

Consider too, any medications you might be taking. Anything that dries up saliva as a side-effect, such as amitriptyline (an antidepressant), may add to the problem.

How do you know if you have bad breath?

Here are some useful pointers, so you don't have to rely on others telling you.

* Lick the inner surface of your wrist. Wait a few seconds and sniff the licked area. Is there an odour?

* Do you smoke at times other than mealtimes when the odour is diluted by food, drink and saliva?

* Do your gums look swollen or puffy and do they bleed when you brush them?

* Does your dentist or hygienist comment on your gum disease (gingivitis) and suggest more efficient brushing and flossing?

Remedies

Start with the dentist and hygienist, because the root of the problem is usually dental.

Proper brushing techniques and regular flossing can work wonders. Brushing a furry tongue with a tongue cleaner is helpful.

* Avoid smoking, alcohol and spicy foods.

* Clean your mouth after eating milk products, fish and meat.

* Chewing sugar-free gum helps because it encourages the flow of saliva without contributing to tooth decay.

* Use a mouthwash to get rid of bacteria and bits of food that you may have missed when brushing.

* Deodorising mouth sprays can mask halitosis in the short term, but you need antibacterial and antiseptic preparations with a longer duration of action to make any lasting difference. Your dentist can advise you on what will be most appropriate.

What makes breath smell?

2008-05-01T06:04:00.001-07:00

Breath only smells when certain aromatic chemicals dissolve within it. Unfortunately many of these chemicals are regularly produced when proteins from food are broken down by bacteria in the mouth. Examples are:

* methyl mercaptan (colourless gas found in foods like nuts and cheese, smells like rotten cabbage)

* putrescine (gas produced when the body breaks down amino acids in food, smells of decaying meat)

* hydrogen sulphide (gas produced by bacteria in the colon and when the body breaks down amino acids in food, smells like rotten eggs).

These chemicals can be absorbed into your bloodstream from the bowel and then circulated around the body until they are excreted via the lungs in breath.

In this way, garlic rubbed into the soles of your feet can later be detected in trace amounts in your breath.

Morning breath

Practically everyone has a degree of halitosis first thing in the morning.

When we sleep, saliva flow drastically reduces while your tongue and cheeks move very little. This allows:

* food residues to stagnate in the mouth

* dead cells to accumulate that would normally be shed from the surface of your tongue, gums and the inside of the cheeks.

As bacteria in your mouth start to work on and breakdown these residues, they generate an unpleasant smell.

Although normal, anyone with nasal congestion who mouth-breathes at night is more likely to be affected.

Morning breath usually disappears after breakfast and daily brushing, because saliva starts to flow again and any leftover residues are washed away and swallowed.

Occasional bad breath

The most common causes of occasional halitosis include smoking cigarettes or cigars, drinking alcohol or eating certain foods.

Culprits that are often to blame include onions, garlic, curries, cured foods like salami and cooked foods like kippers.

Smoking also reduces the flow of saliva in its own right and so worsens bad breath.

Crash dieting or fasting can also lead to halitosis. When the body no longer has a supply of carbohydrates, it first breaks down glucose stored in the muscles and liver.

After a few hours, the body begins to break down its fat stores. The waste products of their metabolism, known as ketones, give breath a distinctive sweet and sickly smell.

You can smell this on the breath of anyone who has vigorously exercised but who hasn't eaten enough carbohydrates before or after their workout.

People on strict high-protein diets experience the same effect for similar reasons.

Cure or Prevent Bad Breath Easily Without Expensive Prescriptions or Painful Tongue Scraping!

2008-04-30T05:59:00.001-07:00

Cure or Prevent Bad Breath Easily Without Expensive Prescriptions or Painful Tongue Scraping!

Do you have bad breath?

Yes? No? You don't know?

If you don't, that's great! (Not just for you, but for anyone you are talking to :-)

But if you do have bad breath, you may be experiencing problems such as:

* A bad taste in your mouth all the time.
* People don't want to stand close to you.
* No one will kiss you on the lips.

You can go on living like this... if you want to. But if you want fresh, clean breath read on...

Did you know that bad breath is probably the most widespread and misunderstood health-related condition in the world?

The good news is that you don't have to live with bad breath. In most cases, it is easily curable. This site is dedicated to helping you find the right products to cure your bad breath for good!

It's a dream come true for some people. You don't have to be insecure anymore because there are products available to make your life better.

For information on how to prevent bad breath, click here.

For some bad breath prevention tips, click here.

The easiest way to learn more about bad breath is to download The Bad Breath Bible e-book for free. It provides a very in depth look at the causes and cures of bad breath.

There are many products available to cure and prevent bad breath, and they come in many different forms, such as:

* Toothpaste
* Mouthwash
* Mints and gum
* Sprays and drops
* And check out the complete starter kits if you want it all
* See all of these products here.

There are even products available to cure bad breath in dogs.

What is halitosis?

2008-04-29T05:55:00.001-07:00

Halitosis is an oral health condition characterized by consistently odorous breath. Often identifying the cause of bad breath is the first step toward treating this preventable condition.
What causes bad breath?

There are just as many causes of bad breath as there are sources of bacteria in the mouth. Halitosis may be caused by the following:

* certain foods
The things you eat contribute largely to your oral health care, including your breath. Items such as garlic and onions, or any food, are absorbed into the bloodstream, become transferred into the lungs, and become expelled in the air you breathe. Until that food becomes eliminated by the body, the potential for it affecting a person's breath is present.

* poor oral health care
Without proper and consistent brushing and flossing, and routine examinations by your dentist, food remains in the mouth, which is a breeding ground for bacteria, which, in turn, causes odorous breath. Food that is allowed to collect on the teeth, gums, and tongue may cause the gums to rot, which causes an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.

* improper cleaning of dentures
Dentures that are not cleaned properly may be collecting bacteria and remaining food particles which cause bad breath.

* periodontal disease
One of the primary symptoms of this gum disease is foul, odorous breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. This condition requires immediate care by an oral health professional.

* xerostomia (dry mouth)
This condition is often a large contributor to halitosis. Characterized by a significant decrease in saliva production, the mouth is unable to cleanse itself and remove debris and particles left behind by food. Xerostomia may be caused by certain medications, a salivary gland disorder, or by continuously breathing through the mouth, instead of the nose.

* tobacco products
Not only do tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and snuff stain the teeth and put the body at risk for a host of diseases, they also contribute to bad breath. Tobacco users also are at an increased risk for the following:
o periodontal disease
o a loss of taste abilities
o irritated gums
* a medical condition
Bad breath may be an indicator or symptom of any of the following conditions. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Consult your physician for a diagnosis:
o a respiratory infection
+ infection of the nose, windpipe, or lungs
+ chronic bronchitis
+ postnasal drip
+ chronic sinusitis
o diabetes
o a gastrointestinal disorder
o a liver or kidney disorder

Treatment for halitosis:

Specific treatment for halitosis will be determined by your physician or dentist based on:

* the health of your mouth
* the cause or origin of the condition
* extent of the condition
* your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
* your opinion or preference

Causes of halitosis

2008-04-28T07:27:00.001-07:00

Causes of halitosis

Major causes
The major causes of halitosis are:

* Dry mouth - caused by medicines, alcohol, stress or a medical condition.
* Foods high in protein, sugar or acid.
* Smoking - which starves the mouth of oxygen.
* Dental factors - such as periodontitis (infection around the teeth) or poor oral hygiene.
* Nasal and sinus infections.

Less common causes
Less common causes of halitosis include:

* Acid and bile reflux from the stomach.
* Post nasal discharge - for example, due to chronic sinusitis.
* Hormonal factors - such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
* Foods - such as onions, garlic or cauliflower, which induce certain odours. However, these effects are only short lived.

Symptoms
The features of halitosis can include:

* A white coating on the tongue
* Dry mouth and teeth
* Post nasal drip, or mucous
* Morning bad breath and a burning tongue
* Thick saliva and a constant need to clear your throat
* Constant sour, bitter metallic taste.

Having halitosis can have a major impact on a person. Because of bad breath, other people may back away or turn their heads. This can cause a loss of confidence and self-esteem.

Treating halitosis
There is no one treatment for halitosis. The treatment will depend on what is causing the problem. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is important. Some mouthwashes and toothpastes are effective in fighting halitosis. People with chronic sinusitis may find the regular use of a saline nasal spray helpful. A course of an antibiotic, effective against anaerobic bacteria (such as metronidazole, to reduce the overgrowth of sulphur-producing bacteria), may also help. Speak to your dentist, doctor or chemist to identify the cause of your halitosis and to find the most effective treatment for you.

Where to get help

* Your doctor
* Dentist
* Your local chemist.

Things to remember

* Halitosis is caused by sulphur-producing bacteria in the tongue and throat.
* The major causes include a dry mouth caused by certain foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene and hormonal factors.
* The treatment of halitosis will depend on the underlying cause.

How To Prevent Bad Breath

2008-04-28T07:24:00.001-07:00

How To Prevent Bad Breath

I suppose you made it here because you want to cure your bad breath, prevent bad breath, treat bad breath in some way, download a free e-book, freshen a pet's bad breath, or because someone you know has bad breath.

If you have no clue how you got here, download the free e-book anyway, you might learn something.

Let's get going.

If you want fresh breath, the least you can do is brush your teeth twice daily, floss once a day, and see a dentist twice a year. That is just common oral hygiene. You're not going to get anywhere without this step. If you are plagued with bad breath, read on.

Oh yeah, one quick tip. Preferably floss before bed, and floss before you brush. That way the particles you loosen can be brushed away.

What about mouthwash? Some mouthwash varieties have a strong, medicine-like taste, but that is just so you will think that they work. In actuality, any mouthwash containing alcohol will make your breath worse.

Get this: There is more alcohol in a bottle of mouthwash than in a 6-pack of beer! Use some oxygenating mouthwash to cure your bad breath instead.

For TheraBreath's oxygenating mouthwash, Dr. Katz says "Within reason, the longer the oral rinse touches the areas containing anaerobic sulfur producing bacteria the better."

For best results you should be using a TheraBreath toothpaste also. The effects of the oral rinse will cancel out if you are using a different toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulfate."

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, otherwise known as soap, is a common ingredient in most toothpastes. In many studies, it has been linked to the production of canker sores because it irritates your oral mucosa.

Hopefully you can get started on fighting bad breath now. For a lot more information I highly recommend downloading THE BAD BREATH BIBLE now for free!

Before you go, I want to give you the truth on a common myth.

Some people think that bad breath comes from the stomach, which is not true. However, here is a quote from the American Dental Association that may show why some people think that bad breath comes from the stomach:

"Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath because they contain odor-causing compounds. When these compounds enter the bloodstream, they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled."

So if you only have temporary bad breath, perhaps after eating onions, that could be the problem. But if your bad breath doesn't go away, you should look into using the line of TheraBreath products.

What is it?

2008-04-28T05:42:00.001-07:00

Bad breath is breath that has an unpleasant odor. It's also known as halitosis. This odor can strike from time to time, or it can be long-lasting, depending on the cause.

Millions of bacteria live in the mouth, particularly on the back of the tongue. In many people, they are the primary causes of bad breath. The mouth's warm, moist conditions are ideal for the growth of these bacteria. Most bad breath is caused by something in the mouth.

Some types of bad breath are considered to be fairly normal. They usually are not health concerns. One example is "morning mouth." This occurs because of changes in your mouth while you sleep. During the day, saliva washes away decaying food and odors. The body makes less saliva at night. Your mouth becomes dry, and dead cells stick to your tongue and to the inside of your cheeks. When bacteria use these cells for food, they produce a foul odor.

In addition, bad breath can be caused by the following:

* Poor dental hygiene — Infrequent or improper brushing and flossing, which allows bits of food to decay inside the mouth
* Infections in the mouth — Periodontal (gum) disease
* Respiratory tract infections — Throat, sinus or lung infections
* External agents — Garlic, onions, coffee, cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco
* Dry mouth (xerostomia) — Caused by salivary gland problems, medicines or "mouth breathing"
* Systemic (bodywide) illnesses — Diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux disease and others
* Psychiatric illness — Some people may believe they have bad breath, but others do not notice it. This is referred to as "pseudohalitosis."

space placeholder
space placeholder . Symptoms
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You may not always know that you have bad breath. That's because odor-detecting cells in the nose eventually get used to the smell. Other people may notice and react by recoiling as you speak.

Other symptoms depend on the underlying cause of bad breath:

* Poor dental hygiene — Teeth are coated with film or plaque. You may have food trapped between the teeth and pale or swollen gums.

* Infections in the mouth — Symptoms depend on the type of infection. They can include:
o Red or swollen gums that may bleed easily, especially after brushing or flossing
o Pus between teeth or a pocket of pus (abscess) at the base of a tooth
o Loose teeth or a change in how a denture fits
o Painful, open sores on the tongue or gums

* Respiratory tract infections — Sore throat, swollen lymph nodes ("swollen glands") in the neck, fever, stuffy nose, a greenish or yellowish nasal discharge, a mucus-producing cough

* External agents — Cigarette stains on fingers and teeth, a uniform yellow "coffee stain" on teeth

* Dry mouth — Symptoms may include:
o Difficulty swallowing dry foods
o Difficulty speaking for a long time because of mouth dryness
o Burning in the mouth
o An unusually high number of cavities
o Dry eyes (in Sjögren's syndrome)

* Systemic (bodywide) illnesses — Symptoms of diabetes, lung disease, kidney failure or liver disease

space placeholder
space placeholder . Diagnosis
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A dentist or physician may notice bad breath during an office visit. Sometimes, the smell of the patient's breath may suggest a likely cause for the problem. For example, "fruity" breath may be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes. A urine-like smell, especially in a person who is at high risk of kidney disease, can sometimes indicate kidney failure.

Your dentist will review your medical history for conditions that can cause bad breath and for medicines that can cause dry mouth. Your dentist also will ask you about your diet, personal habits (smoking, chewing tobacco) and any symptoms. He or she also will ask who noticed the bad breath and when.

Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, mouth and salivary glands. He or she also will feel your head and neck and will evaluate your breath when you exhale from your nose and from your mouth.

Your dentist may refer you to your family physician if a bodywide illness is the most likely cause. In severe cases of gum disease, your dentist may suggest that you see a periodontist (dentist who specializes in gum problems).

You will need diagnostic tests if the doctor suspects a lung infection, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease or Sjögren's syndrome. The type of tests you get depends on the suspected illness. You may get blood tests, urine tests, X-rays of the chest or sinuses, or other tests.
space placeholder
space placeholder . Expected Duration
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How long bad breath lasts depends on its cause. For example, when the problem results from poor dental hygiene, proper dental care will begin to freshen the mouth right away. You'll have even better results after a few days of regular brushing and flossing. Periodontal disease and tooth abscess also respond quickly to proper dental treatment. Bad breath caused by chronic sinusitis may keep coming back, especially if it is caused by a structural abnormality of the sinuses.

Bad breath that results from a systemic illness may be a long-term problem. It often can be controlled with proper medical care.
space placeholder
space placeholder . Prevention
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Bad breath caused by dental problems can be prevented easily with proper home and professional care. This means:

* Brushing your teeth, tongue and gums after meals
* Flossing daily
* Rinsing with a mouthwash approved by the American Dental Association (ADA)
* Visiting the dentist regularly (at least twice a year) for an exam and tooth cleaning.

You also can combat bad breath by drinking plenty of water every day to help your body make saliva. An occasional swish of the mouth with water can loosen bits of food. Other products can help you keep breath fresh and prevent plaque from forming. They include:

* Sugar-free gum
* Sugarless breath mints
* Raw carrots
* Celery

space placeholder
space placeholder . Treatment
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The treatment of bad breath depends on its cause.

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space placeholder . When To Call a Professional
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Call your dentist promptly if you have bad breath with loose teeth or painful, swollen gums that bleed easily. Also, call your doctor if you have bad breath along with any of the following symptoms:

* Fever
* Sore throat
* Postnasal drip
* Discolored nasal discharge
* Cough that produces mucus

Even if you have none of these symptoms, call your dentist or physician if your bad breath continues despite a good diet and proper dental hygiene.

Sometimes bad breath can be a sign that a medical condition needs attention right away. If you have diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic liver or kidney disease, ask your doctor what bad breath may mean for your condition.
space placeholder
space placeholder . Prognosis
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Once bad breath has been diagnosed, the outlook for fresh breath is usually excellent if you stick to your dentist's or physician's treatment plan.

What is bad breath?

2008-04-27T05:37:00.001-07:00

Bad breath, sometimes called halitosis, means that you have an unpleasant smell on your breath that other people notice when you speak or breathe out. The exact number of people with bad breath is not known, but it is common.

How can I tell if I have bad breath?

A main problem with bad breath is that the only person not to notice it is the person affected. (You get used to your own smell and do not tend to notice your own bad breath.) Often, the only way to know about it is if a person comments on it. However, most people are too polite to comment on another person's bad breath. You may have to rely on a family member or a close friend to be honest and tell you if you have bad breath.

Perhaps you could ask your dentist next time you have a check up. A dentist will normally be able to say if you have bad breath. Gum disease is a common cause of bad breath and a dentist will be able to advise on treatment if you have gum disease.

Some people suggest a simple test which you can do yourself to detect bad breath. Lick the inside of your wrist. Wait a few seconds for the saliva to dry. Then smell the licked part of the wrist. If you detect an unpleasant smell you are likely to have bad breath.

Causes and types of bad breath

Coming from within the mouth
Most cases of bad breath come from problems within the mouth such as poor oral hygiene or gum disease. This is discussed in more detail later in the leaflet.

Morning bad breath
Most people have some degree of bad breath after a nights sleep. This is normal and occurs because the mouth tends to get dry and stagnate overnight. This usually clears when the flow of saliva increases soon after starting to eat breakfast.

Foods, drinks and medicines
Chemicals in foods can get into the bloodstream, and then be breathed out from the lungs. Most people are familiar with the smell of garlic, spicy foods and alcoholic drinks on the breath of people who have recently eaten or drunk these. Various other foods and medicines can cause a smell on the breath. This type of bad breath is temporary and easily cured by not eating the food. (However, some people eat spiced food every day and as a result will constantly have a typical smell on their breath.)

If a medicine is causing the problem then discuss possible alternatives with your doctor.

Smoking
Most non-smokers can tell if a person is a smoker by their breath which 'smells like an ashtray'. Stopping smoking is the only cure for this type of bad breath. Smoking also increases the risk of developing gum disease, another cause of bad breath.

Crash dieting or fasting
Can cause a 'sickly sweet smell' on the breath. This is due to chemicals called ketones being made by the breakdown of fat. Some ketones are then breathed out with each breath.

Medical causes
Other medical causes are uncommon. Some people with nose problems can get bad breath. For example, a polyp in a nose, sinusitis or a 'foregin body' stuck in a nostril (occurs most commonly in children) can cause a bad smell. In this situation the smell tends to occur only, or more severely, when you breathe out through your nose. It is not so noticeable when you breathe out through your mouth. Lung or tonsil infections are sometimes a cause. Other causes are rare.

However, in these 'medical' cases, there are usually other symptoms that would indicate the cause. For example, a blocked nose, sinus pain, chest symptoms, etc. If you are otherwise well and have no other symptoms apart from bad breath, the bad smell is likely to be coming from the mouth and other 'medical' causes are unlikely.

Bad breath coming from within the mouth

As mentioned, in most people who have bad breath the bad smell is thought to come from bacteria within the mouth. As the bacteria break down proteins and other debris in the mouth, they release foul smelling gases. One or more of the following may contribute to the build up of bacteria and bad breath.

* Food stuck between teeth. Normal teeth brushing may not clear bits of food (particularly tiny bits of meat) which can get stuck between teeth. The food then rots and becomes riddled with bacteria. Regular flossing can clear and prevent this problem.
* Plaque, calculus and gum disease. Dental plaque is a soft whitish deposit that forms on the surface of teeth. It forms when bacteria combine with food and saliva. Plaque contains many types of bacteria. Calculus, sometimes called tartar, is hardened calcified plaque. It sticks firmly to teeth. Gum disease means infection or inflammation of the tissues that surround the teeth. If your gums look inflamed, or regularly bleed when you clean your teeth, you are likely to have gum disease. The severity can range form mild to severe.
* Coating on the back of the tongue. In some people, a 'coating' develops on the back part of the tongue. It is not clear why this occurs. It may be from mucus that drips down from the back of the nose ('post nasal drip'). The coating can contain many bacteria.
* Mouth tumours that ulcerate and become infected are an uncommon cause of bad breath.

The treatment of bad breath coming from within the mouth is good oral hygiene.

Routine oral hygiene - a cure for most cases of bad breath

It is important to get into a regular habit of good oral hygiene - in particular teeth brushing and flossing.

Teeth brushing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-tufted brush. The head of the brush should be small enough to get into all the areas of the mouth. Spend at least two minutes brushing, covering all areas (the inside, outside, and biting areas of each tooth). Pay particular attention to where the teeth meet the gum. Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months. Many people find that an electric toothbrush does a better job than the traditional toothbrush, and so they have become popular.

It is usually advised that you use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. (The fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay.)

Flossing
Floss your teeth at least once a day after brushing, and preferably twice a day. (Some people who have not flossed before are surprised as to how much extra debris and food particles can be removed by flossing in addition to brushing.)

If you are not sure how to floss, then ask your dentist or dental hygienist. Briefly: the usual floss looks a bit like cotton thread. Cut off about 40 cm. Wind the ends round your middle fingers of each hand. Then grab the floss between the thumbs and first finger to obtain a tight 3-4 cm section which you can pull between teeth. Gently scrape the floss against the sides of each tooth from the gum outwards. This will clean the narrow spaces between the teeth which toothbrushes cannot get to. Use a fresh piece of floss each time.

Some people prefer floss 'tape' which slides between teeth more easily than normal floss. Also, some people use disposable plastic 'forks' with a small length of floss between the two prongs. The plastic fork may be easier to hold and manipulate. However, they are expensive.

The gums may bleed a little when you first begin to floss. This should settle within a few days. If it persists then see a dentist as regular bleeding after flossing may indicate early gum disease.

Other general tips
Other things which are important to keep your teeth and gums healthy are:

* If you smoke, try to stop. Gum disease is more common in smokers than non-smokers.
* Eat a well balanced healthy diet. In particular, you should limit the amount of sugary foods and drinks that you have. Sugars and sugary foods in the mouth are the main foods that bacteria thrive on to make acid which can contribute to tooth decay.
* If children need medicines, wherever possible use sugar free medicines.
* Have regular dental checks at intervals recommended by your dentist (this is normally at least once a year). A dentist can detect excessive build up of plaque and remove calculus. Early gum disease can be detected and treated to prevent it from getting worse.

Other things you can do if you have bad breath
The measures above are usually sufficient to look after your teeth. However, if you also have bad breath coming from your mouth:

* Use an antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day. Just before bedtime is probably the best time. The mouthwash aims to kill bacteria. (Young children should not use a mouthwash if they may swallow it.)
* Clean the back of your tongue at least once a day. Some people do this with a soft toothbrush dipped in mouthwash (not toothpaste). An easier way is to buy a special plastic tongue scraper from a pharmacy. You need to place it as far back as you can and then gently scrape forward to clear the tongue of any coating.
* Some people chew sugar free gum after each meal. Chewing gum increases the flow of saliva. Saliva helps to 'flush' the mouth to help clear any debris remaining from the meal.
* If you have dentures and have bad breath, you may not be cleaning them properly. Ask your dentist for advice as to how best to clean your dentures.

Further help and advice

British Dental Health Foundation
Helpline: 0845 063 1188 Web: www.dentalhealth.org.uk

Runs a free helpline providing independent and impartial advice on all aspects of oral health.

What causes bad breath?

2008-04-26T05:33:00.001-07:00

NetDoctor/Geir
Most people suffer from bad breath occasionally. However, if it becomes permanent you should consult your dentist.

Most adults suffer from bad breath occasionally, although it may affect up to a quarter of adults on a regular basis.

Bad breath is usually brought on by the breakdown of proteins by bacteria somewhere in the mouth. However, there are several other possible causes that affect the airways, oesphagus and stomach that can also lead to bad breath.

Factors that affect the mouth and cause bad breath

o Dental decay.

o Gum disease.

o Food stagnation between the teeth.

o Dry mouth.

o Excessive bacterial activity on the tongue, possibly due to postnasal drip (catarrh coming down the back of the throat from the sinuses and nasal passages).

o Throat or tonsil infection.

o Catarrh.

Factors that affect the airways and cause bad breath

o Sinusitis.

o Polyps.

o Dryness.

o Foreign body.

o Hindered air or mucus flow.

o Bronchitis.

o Pneumonia.

o Bronchiectasis (dilation of the bronchi of the lungs, usually from previous infection).

Factors that affect the oesphagus and stomach and cause bad breath

o Gastritis and food reflux.

o Food stagnation.

In rare cases, bad breath can be a sign of a significant general health problem, so it should not be ignored. However, the usual cause is oral, which can often be treated to resolve the problem.

How can bad breath be treated?

As bad breath is almost always caused by a problem in the mouth, it is helpful to visit a dentist. Do not try to mask the odour before the visit - it needs to be as typical as possible.

If there is any dental treatment required to eliminate disease or avoid food stagnation areas, this will be carried out. If no oral cause can be identified by the dentist, it may be necessary to attend a clinic that specialises in breath odours, or to visit other health professionals.

Some people become excessively concerned about bad breath, in which case a psychological professional can help put what may in reality be a minor problem into perspective.

What can you do for yourself?

* Maintain a high level of oral and dental hygiene. In addition to brushing, it is important to clean between the teeth using dental floss, woodsticks or an inter-dental brush as recommended by your dentist or pharmacist.

* Use a tongue cleaner and clean right to the back of the tongue.

* Use a mouthwash recommended by your dentist or pharmacist. The best time to use it is just before sleeping.

* Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding too much coffee.

* Clean your mouth after eating milk products, fish and meat.

* Chew sugar-free gum, especially if your mouth feels dry.

* Eat fresh, fibrous vegetables.

* Visit your dentist regularly and have your teeth professionally cleaned as required.

Prevent Bad Breath

2008-04-25T04:35:00.001-07:00

Prevent bad breath with products that help your overall dental health. Avoid eating foods like garlic or onions that may create bad breath. You may also prevent bad breath by brushing and flossing after each meal. Your dentist can suggest other ways of cleaning your mouth and helping you prevent bad breath.

Prevent bad breath forever by changing the way you take care of your mouth. Bad breath may be an indication of sinus infection or other health problems. Periodontal disease, gum disease, cavities and other infections in the mouth may also cause bad breath. Bad breath is a signal from your body that something is wrong and needs your attention. Prevent bad breath by getting rid of the problems that cause bad breath.

Bad breath makes a bad impression. It also affects your social life. Your self-confidence improves when you prevent bad breath. You can make new friends and meet new people with more confidence once you have successfully been able to stop bad breath. Your life may change dramatically once you can stop bad breath.

How is your breath? Try this: Cup your hand over your mouth and nose and blow air out of your mouth. Now inhale. If you can smell your breath, then so can others. If your breath smells bad to you, then it smells even worse to others. This is your body's way of telling you to take action to prevent bad breath. The best way to prevent bad breath is with a natural substance that doesn't dry out the mouth or create other problems. Prevent bad breath by getting rid of the source of bad breath.

Bad Breath Medicine Natural Treatments

2008-04-24T04:31:00.000-07:00

Bad breath medicine natural treatments improve your "kissability," restore confidence and help put you at ease around others, say dentists who have studied the social implications of bad breath. Dr. Terry Gotthealth, a Manhattan dentist, recommends simple natural solutions. "Snack on fibrous foods like citrus fruits, parsley, or fennel seeds. This will stimulate salivary flow without providing the oral bacteria with the nutrients (sugar) they need to metabolize. "That's why breath mints don't work. While they stimulate salivary flow and add a fragrance to the air, they also feed the very bacteria causing the problem."

Natural treatments for bad breath are better, healthier solutions for this common problem. Unlike alcohol or other unnatural substances used to treat bad breath, bad breath medicine with natural treatments work with the body. The body is better equipped to accept natural sources of bad breath medicine. Bad breath medicine natural treatment for healthy teeth and gums, preventing canker sores, receding gums, periodontal disease and other dental health problems.

Bad breath medicine natural sources include herbs, minerals and other products found in nature. These are the natural way to treat bad breath, and these are still considered by many to be the best source of bad breath medicine natural ingredients. Natural bad breath medicine does not dry out the mouth or cause other health problems that may be associated with unnatural products.

Bad breath medicine natural treats gingivitis, gum disease and other problems of the teeth, gums and mouth. Suppliers of bad breath medicine natural sources are available online. Bad breath medicine natural treatments are natural ways to better health.

Bad Breath Natural Remedy

2008-04-23T04:27:00.001-07:00

A bad breath natural remedy is recommended by many doctors and practitioners of holistic medicine. A bad breath natural remedy is a better, healthier form of treatment for bad breath than alcohol-based mouthwashes or other unnatural substances. The body is better equipped to accept bad breath natural remedies. Bad breath natural remedy treatment is important for healthy teeth and gums, preventing canker sores, receding gums, periodontal disease and other dental health problems.

Bad breath natural remedy sources include herbs, minerals and other products found in nature. These are the natural way to treat bad breath, and these are still considered by many to be the best source of bad breath natural remedy ingredients. A natural bad breath remedy does not dry out the mouth or cause other health problems that may be associated with unnatural products.

Even when we are healthy, we may still experience bad breath. Bad breath is caused by sulfur producing bacteria which normally live on the surface of the tongue and throat. These bacteria help with digestion by breaking down proteins. Unfortunately, this process can produce bad breath. Since bad breath is a naturally occurring problem, it makes sense to use a bad breath natural remedy to treat it. Under certain conditions, these bacteria start to break down proteins at a very high rate. This process also contributes to mouth odor, as two of the amino acids (Cysteine and Methionine) are dense with odor producing sulfur.

You may need a bad breath natural remedy that treats gingivitis, gum disease and other problems of the teeth, gums and mouth. Suppliers of bad breath medicine natural sources are available online. Bad breath natural remedy treatments are natural ways to better health.

Bad Breath Herb

2008-04-22T04:25:00.001-07:00

A bad breath herb treatment could be your solution to bad breath. Grown commercially to flavor everything from candies and liqueurs to toothpastes, peppermint works well as a bad breath herb remedy. While this bad breath herb is a potent antiseptic, aromatic peppermint oil is toxic and should never be ingested.

A bad breath herb treatment concocted of coriander is a Cantonese folk remedy for bad breath. To use this bad breath herb solution, add a few ounces of fresh coriander (also known as cilantro), to two cups of water and boil for a few minutes.

Drinking a bad breath herb treatment of dill tea after meals will help to refresh your breath. To make this bad breath herb remedy, mix one to two teaspoons of dill leaves or mashed seeds per cup of boiling water. Another bad breath herb treatment is to simply chew on a few dill seeds to freshen your breath.

Before citizens in some ancient Asian cultures were permitted to see their king, they had to take a bad breath herb treatment to freshen their breath. Chewing cloves works well as a bad breath herb solution because its powerful aromatic oil is antibacterial. A bad breath herb mouth rinse can be made by adding several tablespoons of cloves to about a pint of vodka and then steep for a few days to make a pleasant-tasting mouthwash.

Preventing Bad Breath Before It Starts

2008-04-21T07:34:00.001-07:00

Preventing Bad Breath Before It Starts

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily and using mouthwash at bedtime is your ticket to a life free of bad breath. These steps cannot be emphasized enough! Proper oral hygiene is intertwined with daily maintenance. Some suggest brushing after consuming any sugar, but that would also include any food that converts into sugar once it hits your mouth (including all carbohydrates such as pasta, bread, potatoes and milk). To avoid bad breath, daily maintenance is essential.

Before you spend any money on breath mints, gums or strips, remember that those generally only help for a short time. Only good oral hygiene and regular cleanings at your dentist's office will ensure you never get in an embarrassing social situation because of bad breath.

Bad Breath Herbal Remedy

2008-04-21T04:21:00.001-07:00

Bad breath herbal remedy is recommended by many doctors and practitioners of holistic medicine. Dentists note that over 85% of Americans suffer from bad breath at some time. Bad breath may be caused by medical conditions, such as esophageal reflux and hiatal hernia, or it may come from oral sources: cavities, gum disease, and coatings on the tongue. The rough surface of the tongue provides and ideal environment for bacteria to hide and multiply. By-products of bacterial metabolism, called volatile sulfur compounds, create the odor that most of us associate with bad breath.

Many believe that a bad breath herbal remedy is a better, healthier form of bad breath treatment than other unnatural substances often used to treat the problem. Herbs are Nature's medicine, and the body is better equipped to accept and bad breath herbal remedy. A bad breath herbal remedy treatment also helps healthy teeth and gums, preventing canker sores, receding gums, periodontal disease and other dental health problems.

You may need a bad breath herbal remedy that treats gingivitis, gum disease and other problems of the teeth, gums and mouth. Suppliers of bad breath medicine natural sources are available online. Bad breath herbal remedy treatments are natural ways to better health.

Bad breath herbal remedy sources come from plants found in nature. These are the natural ways to treat bad breath, and bad breath herbal ingredients are still considered by many to be the best source of bad breath herbal remedy ingredients. A herbal bad breath remedy does not dry out the mouth or cause other health problems that may be associated with unnatural products.

Bad Breath Cause & Cure

2008-04-20T04:17:00.001-07:00

Bad breath cause & cure information is valuable to have in your battle against halitosis. There is no need to let dragon breath hurt you socially, emotionally or financially; make it a point to become informed about bad breath cause & cure information.

Bad breath cause & cure information gives you invaluable ammunition to fight halitosis with. The growth of bacteria combined with the decomposing of food particles in the mouth is one bad breath cause. A cure for this condition is to simply brush all surfaces of the teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.

Our tongue is a safe-haven where bacteria can escape the toothbrush's wrath; therefore our tongue could be a bad breath cause. A cure is to use one of several commercially available tongue cleaners to scrape off the whitish layer of bacteria.

While being educated about bad breath cause & cure information is a vital step in eliminating halitosis, visit your dentist regularly and maintain good oral hygiene.

Bad Breath Pregnancy

2008-04-19T04:14:00.001-07:00

Bad breath in pregnancy could be caused by heat in the liver and stomach, according to Chinese medicine. Since the liver is one of the important organs for the immune system, a "heated" liver lowers the immune system and leads to bacterial overgrowth, which causes bad breath. Pregnancy makes women more susceptible to inflamed gums and bad breath because their liver has to work harder to eliminate the extra hormones.

Bad breath in pregnancy may also be a sign of poor dental health. Women may experience increased bad breath or pregnancy gingivitis beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy. Bad breath or pregnancy gingivitis can increase in severity throughout the eighth month.

Bad breath in pregnancy could be a symptom of periodontal disease. Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.

If you have bad breath in pregnancy, be sure to include a dental examination as part of your prenatal care. Don't ignore bad breath in pregnancy because healthier gums may lead to a healthier baby.

9 Useful Home Remedies for Bad Breath

2007-12-04T22:24:00.000-08:00

Here is a list of some best Home Remedies for Bad Breath

Home Remedies for Bad Breath

1) Successful Home Remedy for Bad Breath is avocado, which is far superior to any mouth lotion or remedies for this state. It efficiently removes intestinal putrefaction which is one of the most significant causes of bad breath.

2) Unripe guava is helpful in halitosis. It is a good source of tannic, malic, oxalic, and phosphoric acids as well as calcium, oxalate, and manganese. Chewing it is a great tonic for the teeth and gums. It assists cure bleeding from gums and stops bad breath. Chewing tender leaves of guava tree also end bleeding from gums and bad breath.

3) Parsley is a precious Home Remedy for Bad Breath. Two cups of water should be boiled and a number of sprigs of parsley coarsely cut should be steeped in this water along with two or three whole cloves or a quarter teaspoon of ground cloves. This mixture should be stirred infrequently while cooling. It should then be strained and used as a mouthwash or gargle numerous times a day.

4) Chew a mint or some gum for bad bad breath cure. Like mouthwash, a breath mint or mint gum is just a cover-up, good for a short talk, a short ride in a compact car, or a very short date.

5) Spice is good. Many herbs and spices you keep in your kitchen are natural breath enhancers. Hold a tiny plastic bag of cloves, fennel, or anise seeds to chew after odorous meals.

6) Chew up peppermint or carnation for superior breath smell.

7) Consume one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar before each meal.

8) To lose the bad breath consume pumpkin every day

9) Effective Home Remedy for Bad Breath is to dissolve baking soda in water and wash the tongue with this.

Dr John Anne is an Ayurvedic doctor having years of experience in the field of Ayurveda and Alternative medicine. Find out more Home Remedies for Bad Breath at http://www.natural-homeremedies.org He has an exclusive website on Home Remedies for various diseases. You can also contribute to the Home remedies by visiting the website

Popular Home Remedies For Bad Breath - Try It Once by Rick Hussey

2007-11-06T08:29:00.001-08:00

Bad breath can be quite offensive. It is also known as halitosis. Many people are not even aware of the fact that they suffer from this problem.

Bad Breath is usually caused by the breakdown of proteins by bacteria somewhere in the mouth. Bad breath is not contagious, meaning you cannot catch it from someone else. Chronic bad breath, known as Halitosis, does not come from the stomach. The only odor that comes from the stomach is when you burp

Why Do Poor Habits Cause Bad Breath?

If you don't brush and floss your teeth daily, food particles can remain in your mouth, which promotes bacteria growth between teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. This causes bad breath. In addition, odor-causing bacteria and food particles can cause bad breath if dentures are not properly cleaned.

Possible Symptoms of Bad Breath / Halitosis

The main symptom of bad breath is an odor that usually comes from the far back region of the tongue and grows stronger when the person talks. Bad breath is often accompanied by a foul taste in the mouth. The odor can vary from barely noticeable to overwhelming depending on the cause and proximity to the person.

There are also other causes for bad breath which include, infection in the tonsils, adenoids and sinuses. Foods such as garlic, onions, high sugar products, spicy food and dairy products can cause bad breath, along with smoking and drinking alcohol. Hunger, morning breath and poor oral hygiene also play a part in bad breath.

There are a variety of herbal mixtures for bad breath to help eliminate the problem.

* Drinking plenty of water daily will help to control bad breath. Dehydration will attempt to conserve moisture by reducing the salivary flow, which minimizes the saliva's cleansing effects on bacteria which is a cause of bad breath.
* Clean your tongue with a special tongue scraper in order to remove bacteria.
* Garlic is a natural antibiotic. Use an odorless form.
*Zinc has an antibacterial effect.
* Bee Propolis aids in healing the gums and controls infection.
* Gargle with a glass of water which has the juice of half a lemon added.
* Brushing your gums and tongue with powdered cloves is another herbal mixture for bad breath.
* If you suffer from bad breath, then try to avoid foods such as: blue cheese, salami, tuna, curry, garlic, onions, anchovies, red meat, milk, coffee and cola.
* A natural deodorizer is parsley, and cardamom seeds help to sweeten the breath.
* Another bad breath reducer is fennel tea. The compounds that are found in the tea can decrease bacteria growth that causes bad breath.
* Cranberries fight offensive-smelling bacteria.
* Eat a green raw Guava in order to fight against bad breath.
* Cloves can be kept under the molars without chewing in order to keep your breath fresh.
* Eating oranges and citrus fruits, which are high in vitamin C can help control the bacteria population.
* Eucalyptus Oil has an active antiseptic ingredient (Eucalyptol) and can be found in many toothpastes and oral hygiene products.
*Avoid foods that cause you to have bad breath. Also try to avoid alcoholic beverages, which often cause bad breath.

Mouthwashes are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. If you need extra help in controlling plaque, your dentist may recommend using a special antimicrobial mouth rinse. A fluoride mouth rinse, used along with brushing and flossing, can help prevent tooth decay.

http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=42235

Bad breath can be linked to bugs in the belly

2007-10-25T05:48:00.000-07:00

By JOE GRAEDON and TERESA GRAEDON, Ph.D.

King Features Syndicate

Ihave a problem with bad breath though I brush my teeth three times a day and use mouthwash. My dentist said, "It's not your mouth, which is very clean."

I have read that a stomach infection with H. pylori bacteria could cause bad breath. What can I do about this?

Bad breath may result from gum disease, but there are other causes. Many years ago we spoke with Nobel Prize laureate Barry Marshall, M.D. He discovered that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori could cause stomach ulcers. He told us that these germs are behind some cases of hard-to-treat bad breath.

Through the years we have heard from readers who reported success after curing the infection: "When I read about a blood test for a germ in the stomach that causes bad breath and gastritis, I saw my doctor. He hadn't heard of this, but he gave me the blood test. It turned up positive. Now I am fine, after years of bad breath."

Treating H. pylori requires medical supervision, so you will need to see your doctor. Multiple medications are often required to rid the stomach of this bug.

For more details about this infection and its treatment, we are sending you our Guide to Digestive Disorders. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. G-3, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027. It also can be downloaded from our Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.com.

When I was in college, a fellow student gave me this silly remedy for hiccups. Place a paper napkin over the top of a glass of water. Have the hiccupper take sips of water through the napkin. It works!

Before the days of paper napkins, people used a clean cloth handkerchief in one variant of this hiccup remedy. We have no idea why this would work, but readers assure us that it does.

Is there a safe and easy improvement on the method of removing head lice? My wife is a kindergarten teacher, and this annual ritual is wearing us both out. Her students bring lice from home, and they spread to the teachers and other students. Please help!

There is one novel approach that is both easy and safe. Dampen the hair, coat it with the facial cleanser Cetaphil and then use a blow-dryer. The Cetaphil hardens and forms a barrier that suffocates lice. Leave it on overnight, then shampoo it out in the morning (Pediatrics, September 2004).

I have had anxiety attacks several times in the past 15 years. Always before I have been given Xanax, and in several days I would be OK. Then I would occasionally take the pills as needed.

Last week when I went to the doctor and told him I was having anxiety attacks again, he prescribed the blood pressure pill atenolol. Have you ever known atenolol to be given for anxiety? When I tried it, I developed an upset stomach and lost my appetite.

Atenolol has not been approved for anxiety. Such beta blockers are primarily prescribed for blood pressure and heart problems. Doctors sometimes prescribe propranolol or atenolol for the physical symptoms associated with stage fright, but these drugs are not appropriate for general anxiety (Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, August 2006 supplemental). Alprazolam (Xanax) is approved for anxiety, and short-term use is often quite effective.

Home Remedy for Bad Breath – 7 Tips to Get Rid of Bad Breath Naturally

2007-10-06T01:28:00.000-07:00

Bad breath can be really embarrassing and can cause a lot of problems with your social life. Often times bad breath can cause a lot of mental anguish and cause you not to want to go out and have fun. If you continuously chew gun, rinse your mouth out, or try not to look at people when to talk to them, you know what I am talking about. It is my pleasure to let you know that there is a Home Remedy for Bad Breath, and you can cure this awful condition. Don’t get nervous ever time you talk to someone, or see someone coming your way. Bad breath can be a constant worry, and can cause you a lot of stress.

I am on a mission to help you fight bad breath, and I have prepared 7 tips to help you overcome bad breath naturally.

1. One Home Remedy for Bad Breath is avocado. Avocado is known to drastically reduce intestinal putrefaction which is one of the leading causes of bad breath. Avocado can be found in most grocery stores in the fruit section. Try eating more of this fruit and you will see that your bad breath condition will start improving.

2. When brushing your teeth, make sure that you are brushing long enough. Every area of the mouth should be brushed along with every inch of every tooth. Use a soft bristled brush and use back and forth motions on each area of the teeth. You also want to make sure that you brush your tongue good. This is often overlooked by many people, and is one of the main causes of bad breath. The tongue has a lot of bacteria on it that needs to be cleaned. A good tongue scraper can also do really good.

3. When flossing, make sure you use around 15 inches of floss each time, and make sure that it is floss with fluoride. Do not miss any teeth when flossing, and make sure you get every area of every tooth.

4. Another thing that is linked with bad breath is having a dry mouth. Make sure that you drink around 8-12 glasses of water each day to keep hydrated. You also want to make sure that you eat lots of fruits. Fruits have a ton of water, vitamins, and minerals that can help with bad breath.

5. Another thing that you can do to reduce the amount of bad breath that you have is to cut down or eliminate the amount of dairy product that you take in. Dairy can make your bad breath worse because it can make your stomach create really foul odors.

6. You can also reduce the amount of protein that you take in. Proteins and meat are known to cause bad breath. When you cut out some of this stuff that I have mentioned, you are on your way to getting rid of bad breath.

7. One thing that has been found to reduce the amount of bad breath is sugarless yogurt. Recent studies show that sugarless yogurt reduces the compounds found in bad breath. So, sugarless yogurt is a known home remedy for bad breath.

If you take these tips seriously you are well on your way to Getting Rid of Bad Breath Forever. Just know that these tips are only tips and will not guarantee you to get rid of your bad breath. There are Home Remedies for Bad Breath, and these are great tips to get you started.

Did you know that there is a Home Remedy for Bad Breath that is guaranteed to work? Find out how and you will never have to worry about bad breath again.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Sandlin

Home Remedy For Bad Breath: About Braces And Dentures

2007-10-06T01:12:00.000-07:00

Braces and loose-fitting dentures can easily trap food. Food particles and bacteria accumulate in them and make bad breath extremely difficult to cure.

Home Remedy For Bad Breath: What is Gum Disease?

2007-10-06T00:31:00.000-07:00

Periodontal disease, often just called "gum disease," can be the source of a person's problems with bad breath. Ask any dentist, the odor coming from the mouth of a person with active gum disease can be so distinctive that a dentist will often correctly anticipate the presence of gum problems even before they begin their examination of the patient.

Periodontal disease is the second most common fundamental cause of bad breath. Since periodontal disease is typically more of a problem for people over the age of 35 or so, the older we get the more likely that the source of our bad breath is related to conditions associated with the health of our gums.

Periodontal pockets harboring bad breath producing bacteria. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection located in the tissues that surround a person's teeth. Advanced forms of periodontal disease typically result in serious damage to the bone that holds teeth in place. As this bone damage occurs deep spaces form between the teeth and gums (termed "periodontal pockets"). These pockets provide an ideal location for bacteria to live in. In many cases it is waste products coming from the bacteria that reside in these periodontal pockets, pockets which are often so deep that a person cannot effectively cleanse them, that is the cause of a person's bad breath.

From animated-teeth.com

Home Remedy For Bad Breath: Do You Have Smoker's Breath?

2007-10-06T00:17:00.000-07:00

You are probably familiar with people who have "smoker's breath." While even though the precise odor associated with smoking depends on a number of factors, a great part of it will be directly related to the tar, nicotine, and other foul smelling substances derived from tobacco's smoke that accumulates on a person's teeth and oral soft tissues (tongue, cheeks, gums,...).

As a contributing factor, the act of smoking does have a drying effect on oral tissues. Decreased moisture in the mouth limits the washing and buffering effect of saliva on oral bacteria and their waste products.

It's a known fact that people who smoke have a greater risk for having problems with periodontal disease ("gum disease") than people who do not smoke.

From animated-teeth.com

Home Remedy For Bad Breath: How Do Foods Cause Bad Breath?

2007-10-06T00:07:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that certain foods have a reputation for causing bad breath. Possibly the two of the most notorious ones are garlic and onions.

When we eat our digestive system breaks the food we have consumed down in to its component molecules, some of which have very unpleasant and characteristic odors. As these molecules are created they are absorbed into our circulatory system and distributed throughout the remainder of our body as nourishment.

As our blood travels through our lungs some of these molecules will be released into them. Therefore when we exhale our breath will contain some of these offending molecules. As a result we will find that they have bad breath.

From animated-teeth.com

Home Remedy For Bad Breath: Who Are Affected?

2007-10-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

People of most any age may have halitosis, including:

* Individuals with poor dental hygiene.

* The elderly, young children and disabled who have difficulty maintaining dental hygiene.

* People who use appliances in the mouth, including dental braces and dentures.

* Smokers are more prone not only to halitosis, but also periodontal disease (another bad breath contributor).

* People with certain medical conditions including, but not limited to: tooth decay, impacted teeth, abscessed teeth, periodontal disease, alcoholism, uncontrolled diabetes, sinusitis, post-nasal drip, allergies, throat and lung infections (such as bronchitis), and dry mouth. Dry mouth may be the result of a high protein diet, non-fibrous diet, or medical condition.

* Individuals on certain medications. For example, certain vitamin supplements, antihistamines, calcium blockers, cardiac medications, blood pressure pharmaceuticals, and psychiatric drugs have been known to inhibit saliva flow or produce dry mouth, setting the precedence for halitosis. Dry mouth may also lead to excessive thirst and tooth decay - a good foundation for halitosis once again.

* Poor dieters may have bad breath that is caused by certain food and drink that trigger dehydration, including: diet soda, onions, spices, garlic, curry, cabbage, and coffee. High protein food debris lodged between the teeth can produce halitosis as well.

From yourdentistryguide.com

Home Remedy For Bad Breath: You Know When It's Bad Breath

2007-10-05T23:33:00.000-07:00

Bad breath, or less commonly know halitosis, oral malodor (scientific term), breath odor, foul breath, fetor oris are terms used to describe noticeably unpleasant odors exhaled in breathing – whether the smell is from an oral source or not.

Halitosis has a significant impact — personally and socially — on those who suffer from it or believe they do (halitophobia), and is estimated to be the 3rd most frequent reason for seeking dental aid, following tooth decay and periodontal disease.

In most cases (85-90%), bad breath originates in the mouth itself. The intensity of bad breath differs during the day, as a function of oral dryness, (which may be due to stress or fasting), eating certain foods (such as garlic, onions, meat, fish and cheese), smoking and alcohol consumption. Because the mouth is dry and inactive during the night, the odor is usually worse upon awakening ("morning breath"). Bad breath may be transient, often disappearing following eating, brushing one's teeth, flossing, and rinsing with specialized mouthwash.

Bad breath may also be persistent (Chronic bad breath), which is a more serious condition, affecting some 25% of the population in varying degrees. It can negatively impact the individual's personal, social and business relationships, leading to poor self-esteem and increased stress. This condition is usually caused by the metabolic activity of certain types of oral bacteria.

From Wikipedia

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